DHL renews principal partnership with Harlequins

DHL has today renewed its principal partnership with London-based Premiership rugby side Harlequins.

The new deal will see DHL retain its presence on the front of the team’s shirt while also extending support to Harlequins’ leading Academy and EPDG structure, plus the Harlequins Ladies team.

The organisation will also look to expand the service and distribution of Harlequins’ retail offering while growing and developing the grassroots of the game alongside the club’s community team.

Harlequins Commercial Director Ned Wills said: “We are very pleased and excited to have extended our partnership with DHL and continue to work with such a prestigious organisation who recognises the appeal of Harlequins in this country, and around the world.

“This renewed partnership is also exciting as DHL will support the Harlequins Ladies and Academy squads, which reflects our collective ambition to promote the growth of the game at all levels.

“We have enjoyed an incredibly successful relationship since 2012 and we are looking forward to continuing this in the coming years to achieve our collective objectives.”

Shannon Diett, Vice President of Marketing at DHL, added: “DHL is proud to be continuing our successful relationship with Harlequins.

“Over the last four years we have worked closely with club and players to grow their international presence and, as Principal Partner, we look forward to building on this throughout the coming seasons.”

beIN SPORTS partners with Wildmoka to launch mobile near-live video experience for football fans

In complement to TV, now is time to enjoy sports on mobile! With its mobile service, beIN SPORTS FRANCE has been re-inventing the near Live video experience, reaching out to a brand new, digital-addict, subscribers base. Leveraging in-app purchase. Powered by Wildmoka’s unique Automation technology.

Wildmoka, the leading Digital Content Creation Platform provider, has been selected by beIN SPORTS FRANCE to power their new ‘beIN Ligue 1’ in-game mobile service, allowing subscribers near live access to the best in- game highlights.

With Wildmoka’s platform, beIN SPORTS editorial team directly clips and publishes, within seconds, key moments from Live football matches, and provides their subscribers with personalized updates and summary content. With the start of the 2nd season of the service, more than 400 matches have been covered already, generating more than 50.000 hot football moments.

With the acquisition of the French ‘Ligue 1 Near-Live rights’, the challenge was double for beIN SPORTS FRANCE. They wanted to create a brand-new mobile-first experience, powered by in-app purchase, covering 380 matches a year. And they desired that experience to be as quickest as possible, making sure that the quality of the experience is at the level of the subscribers’ expectations to attract and retain that new digital- addict audience.

And for a football fan, the expectation is not even questionable: access to the best moments must be the quickest – notification and video of a goal should be available within seconds. And match with his own personal preferences.

Cristian Livadiotti, co-founder of Wildmoka: “We strongly believe that Automation is key in Digital Content Creation, as it allows for massive and quick creation of short form.

“We are extremely pleased about this partnership, as it is a very strong recognition of our efforts in this area. We have built automation to streamline our customer’s workflow, at the service of their own story telling. Our platform is able to, fully automatically, and almost instantaneously, extract, tag and push key moments from Live sports to any digital platform.

“And thanks to its versatility, it can be tuned to any editorial requirement, and can be adapted to any story telling. The key is to not trade quality for speed, but to achieve the best of both.”

Thomas Menguy, Wildmoka co-founder, added: “Digital is more than ever a serious matter. Our Tier1 customers are fully entitled to claim for very high level of availability, as well as the strongest security for the content rights they have invested so much in.

“The telco grade design of our platform allows us to commit to very high SLA, and features strong content encryption to cope with those requirements.”

Partnerships, content and data among subjects discussed at iSportconnect’s very successful 2017 Brand Marketing Masterclass

iSportconnect, the largest global private network of sport business executives, has won high praise from delegates, speakers and partners for the 2017 Brand Marketing Masterclass.

The annual event was well attended, with over 120 high-ranking delegates present at Pinsent Masons’ offices in central London to discuss, network and connect around the topic of brands and sports partnerships.

LaLiga‘s General Manager of Marketing and Sales, Adolfo Bara, kicked off proceedings with a Keynote Speech detailing how Spain’s globally popular football league has redefined itself to deliver more value than ever for its partners.

The opening Panel of the day presented those in attendance with a unique opportunity to delve into LaLiga’s innovative work with high-profile brands as TAGHeuer‘s Sponsorship Director, Dominic Wolz, took to the stage.

Representatives from 12BET, DHL and EE were on hand on Panel Two to discuss the crucial topic of what brands want from sports partnerships, ensuring everybody in the room will have plenty of food for thought ahead of future endeavours.

Precious peer-to-peer discussions continued throughout lunch as delegates savoured an extensive network session while an array of food was served.

Attendees reconvened for a Case Study by Lucozade Sport‘s Head of Partnerships, James Young, who stressed how vital it is for marketers to evolve their approach within what is an ever-changing industry.

Formula E and Kodak helped form a stellar lineup on Panel Three, which focussed on how brands and right holders can best work together to create captivating content – plus the pitfalls to avoid.

Tom McDonnell, CEO at Monterosa, delivered an engaging Case Study on ‘Digital Engagement Insights’ including an innovative ‘Glue’ idea which was well received by all.

Panel Four proved to be a highlight for many as representatives from Standard Life Aberdeen, European Tour and Atlético Madrid explored the theme of data. Building value through data may not be a new concept but delegates certainly secured several original takeaways on the subject as a wealth of knowledge was shared between the trio of speakers.

Overall, a wide range of speakers, prestigious panellists and knowledgeable delegates combined to produce a memorable event.

Fiona Taag, Head of Global Sponsorship & Europe Marketing Communications at DHL, said: “As always, the event was a great opportunity to meet with sponsorship peers and exchange ideas, plus also a great reminder that we are all facing the same challenges… and the same opportunities!”

Danielle Atkins, Vice President of Brand and Creative at Kodak, said: “The iSportconnect Brand Marketing Masterclass was an excellent event. Great line up of speakers, extremely well moderated Panel sessions. Excellent balance between Sports Rights Holders and Brands.

“I found the event extremely insightful and very good from a networking perspective. I’d definitely attend another event and recommend it to others. Thanks for inviting me!”

iSportconnect has an exciting calendar of upcoming events and you can stay up-to-date with all future announcements on isportconnect.com. Please contact Chris Edbrook (chris@isportconnect.com) to register your interest.

Nissan agree UEFA Champions League three-year partnership extension

Nissan Motor Co. confirmed a three-year extension to its global partnership with the UEFA Champions League, including the UEFA Super Cup.

The agreement comes ahead of the first game of the 2017/18 UEFA Champions League season and will see the Japanese manufacturer stay as an official partner up to the 2020/21 season.

The UEFA Champions League continues to be Nissan’s largest investment in sports sponsorship, which began in 2014.

“Innovation that excites is at the core of everything Nissan does, and our partnership with the most exciting sports tournament on the planet over the last three years has been key to that,” said Roel de Vries, corporate vice president, global head of marketing for Nissan.

“We’ve seen huge success from the partnership and the additional engagement it has allowed us to have with consumers.”

As part of the new deal, Nissan will continue to have extensive rights at UEFA Champions League matches as well as access to other exclusive rights, such as the pre-match Center Circle Carriers and post-match UEFA Champions League Goal of the Week, presented by Nissan digital activation.

Commenting on the agreement, Guy-Laurent Epstein, UEFA Events SA marketing director, said: “We are delighted to continue our partnership with Nissan after a very successful first cycle.

“They have become an integral member of the sponsor family and have been invaluable for the promotion of the competition on a global level.

“The UEFA Champions League brand appeal is growing from strength to strength every single year and its platform continues to provide top brands like Nissan the opportunity to connect and engage with football fans around the globe.”

The UEFA Champions League is another example of Nissan’s dedication in sports. The Japanese car manufacturer holds partnerships with the International Cricket Council, the City Football Group, the Canadian Football League, the Heisman Trust and the Heisman Trophy.

In addition, Nissan has a number of sporting ambassadors, including footballers Gareth Bale, Sergio Agüero and Andrés Iniesta.

Arsenal launch ‘Innovation Lab’ to identify ground-breaking new fan experiences

Premier League club Arsenal have launched the Arsenal Innovation Lab to work with startup organisations to identify ground-breaking new fan experiences and move the club’s business forward.

The Arsenal Innovation Lab will enable the club to work with entrepreneurial businesses to explore the following areas:

  • Improving matchday experience
  • Engaging fans globally
  • Transforming commercial partners’ offering
  • Building a retail operation for the future
  • Wildcard – an opportunity to come forward with ideas, whatever their focus, to help take the club forward

Vinai Venkatesham, Arsenal’s Chief Commercial Officer, said: “We know there are many brilliant startup companies with creative and innovative ideas and we are looking forward to working with them.

“The club has always placed a big emphasis on being pioneering and innovative and we plan to continue this by working with smart-thinking businesses to help us identify ground-breaking ideas to take us forwards.”

L Marks Chairman Stuart Marks added: “Community and innovation are at the heart of Arsenal’s history and values, and so it’s incredibly exciting for L Marks to be supporting the club to accelerate their collaborations with startups and tech talent.

“Though based in London, Arsenal has global support which presents amazing opportunities for new businesses working on digital fan engagement and other relevant solutions to work with the club.”

iSportconnect among top contenders for The London Asian Business Awards 2017

Following the enormous success of The English Asian Business Awards and The Scottish Asian Business Awards, we are delighted to introduce the inaugural London Asian Business Awards presented by Greenleaf Events Management & Catering. Thousands of nominations flooded in over the past months and the full list with finalists has now been compiled.

Based on a vote by the public, the awards highlight the value of London Asian businesses and professionals to the society and the various industries they operate in. The awards seek to reward the entrepreneurial spirit and business acumen embodied by the London Asian community.

The black tie event will be held at the Hurlingham Club on Tuesday the 19th of September 2017.

iSportconnect, London is one of the finalists in the Online Business of the Year category. iSportconnect will find out if they will collect an accolade at the elegant ceremony held in September.

Sree Varma, CEO and Founder of iSportconnect, said: “I am delighted to be nominated for such a prestigious award.”

The London Asian Business Awards presented by Greenleaf Events Management & Catering recognise and commend the efforts, determination and hard work of London Asian businessmen and businesswomen at the forefront of their industries and their significant contributions to their respective business sectors.

The glamorous event promises to be the biggest and most unforgettable night in this year’s events calendar. Numerous prestigious accolades will be awarded to the most deserving professionals and businesses in the London Asian community, including Power Business of the Year, Young Achiever of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year and many more.

Irfan Younis, CEO of Oceanic Consulting said: “We are delighted to see so many people getting involved in The London Asian Business Awards.

“We have had a fantastic response from the public and we are looking forward to welcoming and acknowledging the most dedicated and successful London Asian professionals and businesses in a celebration of their tireless work and achievements. We would like to wish all the finalists the best of luck.”

NFL rolls out enhanced ‘Game Pass’ OTT service across Europe

Ahead of the 2017 season, a newly enhanced NFL Game Pass subscription streaming service is rolling out across Europe.

It will stream every NFL game live in HD with fully-integrated, real-time game data and statistics and new multi-stream capabilities that allow fans to watch on as many as five devices simultaneously.

The new multi-stream option is one of dozens of enhancements and features created using extensive fan research and feedback for NFL Game Pass.

“NFL Game Pass has become the destination for our avid NFL fans outside the United States who look to connect with the sport they love when, how and where they want,” said Michael Markovich, Vice President of International Media & Business Development for the NFL.

“Digital engagement – both streaming and on-demand – is a key connection point for the NFL and our fans and will become increasingly important as we look to grow the NFL fan base in Europe and beyond. We are excited to work with OverTier to take the Game Pass business to the next level.”

In addition to all the live action, fans will have access to the 24/7 home of the NFL, NFL Network, as well as NFL RedZone which brings fans live look-ins to every touchdown and all the big moments from every Sunday afternoon game across the NFL and hundreds of hours of on-demand shows, series and specials including the award-winning NFL Films productions A Football Life and Hard Knocks.

NFL Game Pass in Europe is licensed by OverTier; a joint venture between Bruin Sports Capital and WPP, in partnership with the NFL.

Andrew Parsons appointed as new International Paralympic Committee President

Andrew Parson was elected as the International Paralympic Committee’s (IPC) new President today, 8 September, following the voting at the 18th IPC General Assembly in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

Parsons was chosen ahead of fellow presidential candidates Patrick Jarvis, John Petersson and Haidi Zhang. He succeeds Sir Philip Craven who stood down after 16 years in the role.

“I am absolutely delighted and I don’t know what to say. I would like to thank the IPC membership for their trust” said Parsons, who becomes the third President in IPC’s history.“

“Throughout my campaign, I think I have explained what I plan to do as IPC President and the membership understood and gave me their support. Now it is time to roll up the sleeves and work really hard with the membership and the new Governing Board.”

For the role of vice president, Duane Kale was elected in a close race which 160 members voted in. The New Zealand four-time Paralympic champion polled 81 votes while John Petersson polled 79.

“It is a little bit surreal but I am elated. It will take time to sink in,” said Kale. “This has to be one of the most wonderful things to happen to me life-wise. I am very emotional.

“I am really looking forward to working with the new President. I think we will make a fantastic team and I think that is important for the Movement.”

The President was elected by secret ballot by the IPC membership which is made up of National Paralympic Committees, International Federations, International Organisations for the Disabled and Regional Organisations.

In the first round, 162 members voted and Parsons secured 84 votes, having needed an absolute majority of 82 to win.

“Going forward the relationship with the IOC is going to be key. We have some very important decisions ahead; sport is at a difficult moment at this time and we have many things in common that we have to fight for,” Parsons added.

“It is fundamental that we work together, co-operate and I am sure we will do that.”

Brighton & Hove Albion announce JD as first ever shirt sleeve sponsor

Sports fashion retailer JD have become the first shirt sleeve sponsor of Brighton & Hove Albion as the south coast club take part in their first ever season in the Premier League.

JD’s logo will feature on the left sleeve of Albion’s home, alternate and third kits, with this season being the first where top flight clubs can create brand partnerships to advertise on player shirt sleeves.

The JD logo will feature on the sleeve for the first time when the Seagulls host West Bromwich Albion this weekend on the south coast.

Albion Chief Executive Paul Barber said: “This is another exciting partnership for the club and we are delighted to welcome JD as our first ever shirt sleeve sponsor in the Premier League.

“JD is an instantly recognisable brand amongst football fans and we are looking forward to seeing their logo on our shirts for the first time this Saturday. They join our list of high-profile partners at the club, and we are excited to be working with them over the coming season.”

JD Group Marketing Director Stephen White added: “JD are delighted to become their first shirt sleeve partner of Brighton & Hove Albion. Off the pitch JD lives on the shoulders of our customers across the UK through our iconic duffle bag and we hope to have the same effect with the Seagulls’ shirt sleeve.

“Through our partnership with Brighton & Hove Albion, we’ll be a major part of their debut season in the Premier League and connect with fans in the city and beyond.”

JD will receive a host of marketing rights around the American Express Community Stadium, online and social. The sports retailer have a heavy presence in Sussex with stores in Brighton, Worthing, Horsham, Eastbourne, Crawley and Bognor Regis and will look to closely integrate their brand on a local level throughout the season.

Eurosport expands Guinness PRO14 broadcast partnership

Eurosport today announced it has secured the rights to show this season’s Guinness PRO14 in 62 countries and territories across Europe and Discovery-owned Rugbypass and Setanta in Asia.

Now in its second season as a broadcast partner of the competition, the agreement will see Eurosport and Eurosport Player show all home and selected away games – if locally produced – featuring Italian teams in the Guinness PRO14, underlining its strategy to showcasing premium content exclusively live for millions of passionate sports fans.

Eurosport Italia will have exclusive rights to the competition.

The 2017-18 season kicked off last weekend (1 September) with Eurosport showing Munster’s defeat of Benetton Rugby in Cork and will continue this weekend when Benetton host Ulster. Eurosport will also broadcast Scarlets’ trip to the Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi to take on Zebre on Sunday.

Eurosport CEO Peter Hutton said: “At Eurosport we are committed to giving our viewers the very best in premium sporting content and we are thrilled to once again be a part of the Guinness PRO14 after coming on board last season for the first time.

“We have had a taste of this competition already and were royally entertained and we cannot wait to build on what we delivered last season by adding the option to watch games on the Eurosport Player. The expansion of the Championship into South Africa brings a truly unique dynamic to the Guinness PRO14.”

Martin Anayi, CEO of PRO14 Rugby, said: “To have Discovery Eurosport on board once again is fantastic news for our fans in Italy as well as across Europe and Asia. As a broadcast partner we were delighted to see what Eurosport could bring to the table during the last campaign.

“This year, Eurosport will broadcast even more games to supporters across Europe and Asia and we’re particularly excited that Guinness PRO14 games will be made available on the Eurosport Player. From a digital perspective sports fans are incredibly savvy and they are pushing the market to deliver more and more products like the Eurosport Player and it’s great to know that fans in over 60 countries will be able to access that.”