Croatian Subscription TV Service Pickbox NOW Signs Up To European VOD Coalition

Pickbox NOW, the Croatian Subscription Video on Demand platform has opted to join the European VOD Coalition.

The European VOD Coalition strives to defend and promote cultural diversity and the use of Video on Demand as a legal channel for the distribution of audiovisual content.

It has almost 30 members from across Europe and tries to facilitate a collaborative management between VoD platforms through the exchange of know-how and expertise

Owner of Pickbox, Sanja Bozic-Ljubicic, stated: “We are proud that Pickbox is in the company of leading VOD services whose common goals it shares. Along with developing European audiovisual and digital leadership, and encouraging innovation and creativity, market regulation is most definitely one of the priorities.

“The industry is undergoing a significant transformation, and we are proud to represent the Adria region within the coalition,” she added.

Maximising the Potential of Women’s Sport, Goodform Reveal Findings Ahead Of International Women’s Day

When it comes to gender equality in sport, new research released by Goodform to mark International Women’s Day in 2020 highlights there remains much more progress to be made.

We know that women’s sport is on an upwards trajectory – there are new initiatives, new funding streams, new competitions and an unprecedented volume of media coverage. We also know that men’s sport remains the dominant player – in participation, in attendance numbers, in column inches, in commercial clout. 

In Goodform’s latest Sports Fan Panel survey amongst almost 1500 sports fans, interest in the men’s game outstrips interest in the women’s across 8 major sports, with only tennis and athletics boasting near-parity in terms of interest. This is also reflected in attendance patterns – 30% of those surveyed have never attended either a women’s or mixed gender sporting event, a staggering 10 times more than the 3% who have never attended men’s sport. This is in spite of half of the sports fans surveyed believing that women’s sport is both more affordable and more family friendly than the men’s game.

There have been some high-profile successes in the growth of women’s sport in the last few years – most notably the ICC Women’s World Cup Final selling out at Lord’s in 2017 – but sports fans perceive this progress to be stalling: 40% of men and only 26% of women surveyed stated that they believe the gender gap in sport has diminished in the last 12 months.

This week, Sky Sports committed to investing in a 360° approach to covering women’s sport, with plans to utilise its YouTube channel to make events including the Women’s Six Nations, the WNBA, Vitality Netball Superleague and women’s cricket available to a wider audience. The potential positive impact of this move is highlighted by Goodform’s findings: availability of women’s sport on free to air TV is seen to be more important than the success of national teams in driving increased engagement with women’s sport – and 47% of those surveyed stated that they would watch more women’s sport if it were more readily available.

When it comes to funding the growth of women’s sport, it’s complicated. 77% of women and 63% of men believe that profits from the men’s game should fund the women’s game until parity is achieved – with the remainder believing that women’s sport should be commercially sustainable in its own right. For a third of those surveyed, this funding should only be on the basis that the men’s game is not affected in any way – a balance that we see many organisations trying to navigate. For example, the recent announcement that the prize money for The Hundred will be equally split between the men’s and women’s teams makes for a great headline – but masks the huge disparity in wages that remains (the average contract for female players is £8,000 compared to £66,600 for the men). In a world of limited funding and an increasingly competitive sponsorship environment, there are no easy answers.

What’s clear, though, is that the opportunity for women’s sport to grow remains huge. Its appeal continues to grow – and with a higher proportion of men than women interested in the women’s game for half of the sports included in the survey, it’s clear that women’s sport has the potential to compete for everyone’s interest, time and loyalties – not just women’s.
For more information about this research or Goodform’s Sports Fan Panel, please contact Alexandra Kyrke-Smith, Strategy Director – Alexandra.kyrke-smith@goodformgroup.co.uk

On The Move: Latest Community Job Appointments

Serena Sharman is the new Marketing Director for WWE.

Louisa Fyans is now Director of Communications for the Football Association.

Sam Lyon will be Vice-President of Content, Eurosport Digital for Discovery Inc.

Leon Rose was named as the new President of the New York Knicks.

Iain Liddle was appointed Head of Social Media for 7League.

Gareth Mills will become Head of News and Corporate Communications for the Premier League.

John Parker has been announced as the new Creative Director for Ear to the Ground.

Ananya Sachdev was appointed Strategist, Global Sports Business at Rakuten.

Nicola Boscaro has taken a role in Sponsorships Sales at AC Milan.

Phillippe Le Floc’h has joined the ITTF as Senior Commercial Strategy Consultant for World Table Tennis.

On The Move: Latest Community Job Appointments

Serena Sharman is the new Marketing Director for WWE.

Louisa Fyans is now Director of Communications for the Football Association.

Sam Lyon will be Vice-President of Content, Eurosport Digital for Discovery Inc.

Leon Rose was named as the new President of the New York Knicks.

Iain Liddle was appointed Head of Social Media for 7League.

Gareth Mills will become Head of News and Corporate Communications for the Premier League.

John Parker has been announced as the new Creative Director for Ear to the Ground.

Ananya Sachdev was appointed Strategist, Global Sports Business at Rakuten.

Nicola Boscaro has taken a role in Sponsorships Sales at AC Milan.

Phillippe Le Floc’h has joined the ITTF as Senior Commercial Strategy Consultant for World Table Tennis.

LIVENow Trials New Streaming Service At Financial Times Football Summit

LIVENow will live stream the FT Business of Football Summit in London on Thursday, sharing the event with an international audience HERE.

Viewers can hear from a host of leading figures from the world of football including former England and Man Utd defender Gary Neville, Juventus chairman Andrea Agnelli and Inter Milan president Steven Zhang on the theme ‘deal-making, disruption and the relentless development of the beautiful game.’

LIVENow is set to offer flexible pay-per-view access to a host of live events – including sport, concerts, plays and conferences – through a global distribution network of publishers and social media channels.

Broadcaster ELEVEN SPORTS has already made use of the tool in Italy, making live matches available to fans on a pay-per-view basis via participating media outlets locally and internationally. The tool is also available to clients in south east Asia and more partnerships will be finalized in the coming weeks.

LIVENow was founded by global investment platform Aser Ventures.

Two Weeks To Go: BT Sport, Sportradar And Formula 1 To Speak At Broadcast Masterclass

We are thrilled to reveal three more speakers for our upcoming iSportconnect Broadcast Masterclass on Thursday the 19th of March.

Matt Stagg, Director of Mobile Strategy, BT Sport, Patrick Mostboeck, Commercial Director – OTT, of Sportradar, and Frank Arthofer, Global Head, Digital Media and Licensing, Formula 1.

iSportconnect’s Broadcast Masterclass is taking place at the Chelsea Harbour Hotel in London and will explore a number of different sectors in the broadcasting space, including topics like 5G and direct to consumer models.

Lindsey Clay, CEO of Thinkbox, Luis Vicente, Chief Executive Officer at ELEVEN SPORTS, and Johan Cederqvist, Head of Sports Channels and Sports Rights Acquisitions at Swedish company TV4 Media will be taking part in the event.

We will also hear from Paul Stimpson, EVP of Rights at DAZN and Alistair Gosling, Founder and CEO of Extreme.

Matt Stagg

Matt has over 25 years’ experience in mobile media and entertainment and Sport. He was voted in the top 50 most influential people in online TV for four years and in 2017 he was awarded the TV Connect People’s Choice award for the ‘Person who made the biggest impact on the connected entertainment industry’.

Within BT Sport he is responsible for developing the broadcaster’s mobile capabilities and long-term mobile strategy recently leading the team that delivered the award-winning worlds 1st remotely produced live sporting over 5G. He is also currently developing the strategy and roadmap for Augmented and Mixed Reality

As part of the wider BT Group Matt is also developing the technology strategy for the Broadcast, Media & Entertainment over 4/5G. This encompasses an end to end approach incorporating both contribution and distribution of media. He is also a member of UK5G Advisory Board representing Sport and the the Creative Industries. UK5G is the national innovation network dedicated to the promotion of research, collaboration and the commercial application of 5G in the UK

Patrick Mostboeck

In his role as a Commercial Director OTT Patrick overseas Sportradar’s global end-to-end technology and business approach to support sports rights holders and content owners with their direct-to-consumer offering. Clients include enterprise customers such as Deutsche Telekom, Tennis channel or Onefootball as well as Federations, Leagues & Promoters such as International Table Tennis Federation or International Tennis Federation.

Patrick joined Sportradar in 2014 including prior Sportsman Media time that has been acquired by Sportradar in 2016 with the aim to grow it’s audiovisual and sports media footprint. Prior to that, Patrick was part of a four-headed founding team to create Austria’s leading platform for grassroots football. Achievements include expansion from Austria to Germany as well as opening up additional business verticals to the editorial content platform such as an online store, a magazine distributed via a regional network of media partners as well as an indoor soccer tournament with more than 2,000 active participants. Patrick holds university degrees in marketing & sales and media & communications consulting.

Frank Arthofer

Frank is the GM of F1 Digital and Licensing, his responsibilities include leading product, content and business development for all owned and partnered digital properties. He also leads Formula 1 licensing business, leading growth through strategic partnerships with the likes of YouTube, Facebook, Amazon and others.

Prior to F1, Frank Arthofer was a Principal in the Tech, Media and Telcom Practice at Boston Consulting Group in LA, and previously Sr. Director of Business Development for Disney / ESPN / ABC.  Some of his experience includes developing the initial business plan for ESPN’s 30 for 30 series, developing a growth strategy for DreamWorks TV unit and launching the redesign and new business plan for YouTube Red.

To register your interest in attending the 2020 iSportconnect Broadcast Masterclass, please contact Theresa Muller at theresa@isportconnect.com

Invitation Policy: The Broadcast Masterclass is a complimentary event for iSportconnect members who are from governing bodies, sports teams, brands and broadcasters. There is no fee to become an iSportconnect member. No sports agencies, professional service providers & suppliers are allowed at our Masterclasses.

For limited partnership opportunities, please contact brandon@isportconnect.com

Major League Soccer And Facebook Partner To Bring Game Recaps To Facebook Watch

Major League Soccer has announced a partnership with Facebook to create robust recaps of all matches during the 2020 season for Facebook Watch. In addition, MLS will host a weekly Watch Party on Facebook, enabling fans around the world to connect while viewing game recaps and videos together in real-time, and create official Facebook Groups for select teams across the league.

“Facebook’s innovative Watch Party experience is the perfect place for Major League Soccer fans around the world to exchange views and share their passion for our clubs and players,” said Chris Schlosser, MLS Senior Vice President, Media.  “We’re proud to collaborate with Facebook to deliver exciting game recaps and engage globally with MLS fans.”

Fans will be able to stay up to date with the latest highlights by following the MLS Facebook Page at facebook.com/MLS. Between league, team and player accounts on the platform, the MLS Facebook community exceeds more than 30 million people. The agreement will also bring archival clips, featuring top moments in MLS history, and player-centric highlights to Facebook Watch.

“Major League Soccer is one of the fastest growing leagues in the U.S., and we’re excited to help it continue to reach new fans through this partnership,” said Rob Shaw, Facebook Director of League and Media Sports Partnerships. “This content will bring people together to celebrate wins, commiserate over losses and share the top plays with their friends, making it a fantastic fit for Facebook Watch.”

Fans will be able to access MLS content on Facebook via Facebook Watch on mobile apps across Apple and Android, on desktop, laptop and on a variety of TV apps.

Sportradar Opens Legal Proceedings Against Betgenius and FDC

Sportradar has revealed they are serving legal proceedings against two companies, Betgenius and Football DataCo.

Football DataCo are the Premier League’s data company, who are partnered with Genius Sports to provide the Premier League’s betting data. Sportradar argue this deal is removing competition and in breach of UK law.

Sportradar stated:

“This legal action is embarked upon with reluctance and Sportradar has not taken the decision lightly. Sportradar had hoped to find a fair solution that enables it to build its own database and to compete effectively in the market, but that has not proved possible.

Sportradar remains open to the possibility of finding a resolution. However, ultimately, Sportradar supports a competitive marketplace in which there is genuine choice between suppliers. This competition is vital for innovation, genuine product choice and fair pricing and we believe these elements are worth protecting. The step Sportradar has taken is focused on that outcome.

Sportradar is, and has always been, willing to pay for access, and to be part of an integrated, accredited, and fair system of collection and distribution which enables competition. Sportradar believes that the system put in place by Betgenius and FDC does not allow for this outcome; and that the current arrangements are in breach of UK and EU Competition Law.

This status is not only harmful to data supply companies like Sportradar, but also to the downstream market (bookmakers and their customers) where product choice is being restricted or removed in favour of an information monopoly. This is why Sportradar has now sought adjudication by an independent specialist tribunal in the hope that matters can be resolved fairly and equitably.”

Volvo Car UK Renews Its Sponsorship Of British Triathlon

Volvo Car UK is pleased to announce it is to continue as the Official Vehicle Partner of British Triathlon for a further three years. The decision follows a successful first year in its association with the sport’s National Governing Body in 2019.

Once again, Volvo cars will support a busy calendar of major triathlon events around the country, including the annual season-launching Triathlon Show at London’s ExCeL exhibition centre (27-29 March). Its vehicles will also be used by British Triathlon coaches and officials in their work throughout the year.

Key dates for 2020 include the AJ Bell World Triathlon Leeds (6-7 June), part of the ITU World Series where the world’s best triathletes will be in action. The calendar will also feature the highly popular Accenture Mixed Relay Triathlon event at Canary Wharf in London.

The partnership between Volvo and British Triathlon is founded on their shared core values, including respect and care for the environment, sustainability and a sense of adventure. Both also share a focus on people, helping them to enjoy active lifestyles and explore new opportunities.

These messages have been amplified by the work of the first two triathletes to be appointed Volvo brand ambassadors: multiple World and European Championship winner and Rio 2016 Paralympic silver medallist Lauren Steadman, and John McAvoy, an ex-career criminal turned full-time professional athlete.

Lauren and John are to be joined by further star names from the world of triathlon; details will be announced soon.

Kristian Elvefors, Managing Director, Volvo Car UK, said: “We have enjoyed an excellent first year supporting British Triathlon, helping us connect with thousands of people who enjoy the challenge and excitement of the sport – both as competitors at all levels and as spectators. In our second year of sponsorship we look forward to growing our relationship and reinforcing the messages around our shared values, helped by the excellent work of our sporting brand ambassadors.”

 Andy Salmon, British Triathlon CEO, said: “We are delighted that our partnership with Volvo is set to continue. It has been great to work alongside a company that shares our core values and I know as the sport moves forwards we will continue to grow together. Volvo not only has a passion for promoting active lifestyles, but also has safety, quality and care for the environment at its heart, which resonates with our membership and audience. I am looking forward to seeing what we can achieve together in the future.”

Coronavirus Advice On FAQs From ATPI

How has the ATPI Group been impacted by Coronavirus and what measures have you put in place to manage it?

  • As a global travel company ATPI is committed to the health and safety of our clients and staff. We are closely monitoring the situation via both the World Health Organisation and local government and health authorities.
  • As part of our commitment to delivering a comprehensive service clients can, via their account manager, sign up to receive ATPI Alerts™ , providing live updates on the current status of Coronavirus to ensure the information they have is accurate.
  • We continue to offer clients robust duty of care support to ensure traveller safety remains a priority.

What advice are you offering to clients who are concerned about the risks presented by travelling? 

  • We are committed to the health and safety of our clients and staff.
  • We are closely monitoring the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation and are aware that the World Health Organisation (WHO) has issued advice for those affected or who might be affected. In all instances we advise clients to refer to the WHO and their local government websites for the latest advice and status on the situation.
  • For the latest updates on the situation clients can opt to sign up to ATPI Alerts™  via their account manager.

If I need to contact ATPI to make urgent changes or cancel my reservation due to the evolving COVID-19 situation, what do I do?

  • Call your company’s ATPI operations team by using the number shown at the top of your itinerary.
  • You can find your most local ATPI office here.

What do I do if I begin to feel unwell or show symptoms of COVID-19 whilst travelling?

  • It has been suggested by the WHO that those who feel unwell and suspect COVID-19 as a cause should self-isolate as much as possible.
  • Check authorities such as the WHO and local governing bodies for official recommendations and guidelines
  • If you feel unwell prior to travel then it is advisable that you do not go ahead with your trip. If you need to change your travel plans as a result of this then please call your ATPI servicing team. You can find the contact details of your local ATPI office here.

Will my travel be refunded?

  • This will depend on a number of factors and can change at any time.
    • If the airline has cancelled your flight(s), then they will refund you.
    • If your company has advised you not to travel, and you cancel your travel, please inform ATPI as quickly as possible in order to avoid no-show charges by the airline. In general, the rules of the ticket issued will apply. ATPI will inform you if your ticket is refundable, non-refundable, or has cancellation charges associated.
    • Some airlines are allowing travellers to re-book or cancel flights free of charge due to COVID-19, but this is a constant changing picture.
    • Please ensure you sign up to ATPI Alerts™  via your account manager for the latest updates on all airlines and measures they are taking.

How can I decide if it is safe to travel?

  • Follow communications your company is issuing regarding this topic and associated travel policy amendments. Furthermore, there is a wealth of information available, and we suggest you refer to any of the following:

I’m a travel booker, how can I check where all my travellers are currently, and what future travel they have planned?

  • Talk to the person in charge of travel for your company about what the process is for tracking travellers. ATPI also offer a range of duty of care services, including the ATPI Traveller Tracking System™ (TTS), for a fee, which allows you to run reports for any given date range on who is currently travelling to certain destinations, as well as where people are planning to travel. Get in touch with your ATPI account manager for more information.