Manchester City hit by losses of over $190 million

English Premier League side Manchester City has announced losses of £121 million (US$191 million) for the 12 months leading up to 31 May this year.

The record losses rose by a third compared to the £92.5 million (US$146.3 million) of the previous year.

The club’s wage costs of £133.3 million (US$210.9 million) exceed its turnover of £125 million (US$197.8 million), which would be unsustainable for most other businesses.

However, City are owned by billionaire Sheikh Mansour of Abu Dhabi, who has invested more than £300 million (US$474.9 million) in players since he took control of the club in 2008.

Sheikh Mansour posted a letter on the club’s official website which read: “Two years ago I was fortunate enough to become part of the Manchester City story and I remain grateful for the warmth of the welcome that you have given me.

“The ownership of a club like Manchester City, with such a rich heritage and diverse community of stakeholders, carries a unique set of obligations to the fans, staff and broader Manchester community.

“This is something I do not take lightly. Therefore the challenge I set my board and executive leadership team is to develop City so that it is one of the most successful clubs both on and off the pitch, but to do so without losing any of the characteristics that make it so special.”

The highest financial loss in the history of the Premier League was Chelsea’s in the 2004/05 season when the club posted losses of £141 million (US$223.2 million) after its first full season under the ownership of Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich.

Seattle Seahawks Partner with Verizon to Enhance Wi-Fi Connectivity

Suer Bowl champions Seattle Seahawks have partnered with Verizon to announce significant enhancements to the wireless network at CenturyLink Field to provide fans with free open access to Wi-Fi.

Working with Verizon and CenturyLink, Extreme Networks, the Official Wi-Fi Analytics Provider of the NFL, installed its acclaimed high-density Wi-Fi and Purview analytics systems at CenturyLink Field prior to the 2014 NFL season in conjunction with this initiative. Now tens of thousands of Seahawks’ fans can enjoy their wireless devices, social media and pictures throughout the game as connecting to their apps and the Internet is both fast and simple.

In addition to implementing Wi-Fi and enhancing in-stadium connectivity, 12 individuals will be on site as part of the in-stadium Wi-Fi Certified Coach Program – a uniquely developed service offered by Extreme Networks to support fans at venues that have deployed high density Wi-Fi. These individuals provide technical assistance and educate fans about Wi-Fi usage and game day mobile offerings such as the Verizon NFL Mobile app and the Seahawks’ team app. 

“The Seahawks are excited to work with Verizon and Extreme Networks to bring the best Wi-Fi solution to our fans at CenturyLink Field,” said Seahawks President Peter McLoughlin. “By enhancing connectivity throughout the entire stadium, it allows us to offer new mobile app features such as live video streaming, and ‘Eye of the Hawk’. This allows fans to select live feeds from around the stadium along with coverage of live on-the-field action from multiple camera angles, replays and game highlights.” 

As part of Verizon’s relationship with the Seahawks, the south end zone restaurant has been transformed into the Verizon Lounge, a state-of-the-art sports bar and restaurant. The Verizon Lounge also serves as the location for the Seahawks’ postgame radio show. Verizon installed 36 charging stations in the lounge and throughout the stadium to provide fans with the ability to stay in touch on game day. 

“Seahawks fans deserve a championship-caliber wireless experience on game day, and now they have two WiFi options, plus XLTE network enhancements in-stadium and in-the neighborhood for greater reliability,” said Bobby Morrison, Verizon Wireless President for the Pacific Northwest and Alaska. 

“An immersive and connected fan experience at games continues to be a significant goal for the NFL. We are marching into the future of stadiums and technology and through Extreme Networks and Verizon, the Seahawks will be able to provide an engaging experience for their dedicated fans,” said Michelle McKenna-Doyle, Senior Vice President and CIO of the NFL.

“At Extreme Networks, we strive to provide fans with unwavering wireless connectivity enhancing the game day experience. In today’s multi-device environment, it is imperative that fans can access, view and download the content that matters most to them, from instant replays to scores around the NFL,” said Norman Rice, senior vice president of corporate development for Extreme Networks. “Through our relationship with the Seattle Seahawks, CenturyLink and Verizon, we deliver pervasive connectivity resulting in an incredible experience.”

Ron Gourlay Quits as Chelsea CEO

Premier League leaders Chelsea have announced that chief executive Ron Gourlay will step down from his position after 10 years at the helm. 

Gourlay is leaving to pursue “new business opportunities”, and Chelsea chairman Bruce Buck and director Marina Granovskaia will cover his role until a new CEO is appointed.

Gourlay previously worked at Manchester United and sportswear manufacturer Umbro and has spent the last five years as Chelsea’s CEO.

A Chelsea statement read: “Chelsea Football Club announces that Ron Gourlay, after 10 successful years at the club including five as chief executive, is leaving Chelsea in order to pursue new business opportunities.

“The club, and in particular the owner and directors, wish to thank Ron for his many years of service to Chelsea and support his desire to seek new challenges. Ron’s efforts have helped the club to achieve its position as one of the leading football clubs in the world.

“Pending additional appointments, chairman Bruce Buck and director Marina Granovskaia will assume additional executive responsibilities.”

Gourlay added: “It has been a privilege to have played a role in the club’s considerable achievements both on and off the pitch over the last 10 years, but I feel the time is right to move on to other challenges.

“I would like to thank Mr Abramovich, the directors, the manager and players and all the staff for their support during my time at the club, and wish them much continued success in the future.”

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Portsmouth to Host 2014 World Cup of Pool

The Mountbatten Centre, patient Portsmouth in England will host the 2014 edition of the World Cup of Pool from 23rd to 28th September.

Following four years of the event in Manila and then a successful return to the UK in London last year, find the event will now play out on England’s south coast. 

Now in its ninth year, the World Cup of Pool features 32 two-player teams from around the world battling it out for a $250,000 prize fund. The defending champions are the Philippines who will be among the favourites to claim a record-breaking fourth World Cup. 

Packed with some of the best players in the world, there will be plenty of teams in with a great chance to lift the coveted title, including two sides from the host nation. 

Commencing on Tuesday 23rd and culminating in the final on the evening of Sunday 28th, the event will be played to a single elimination format over six days with two sessions a day. 

Barr Hearn, Chairman of promoters Matchroom Sport, said: “We’re delighted to be bringing the World Cup of Pool to Portsmouth and hopefully this lively naval city will be an ideal host for one of cue sport’s most exciting events. 

“Mosconi Cup tickets went like hot cakes this year and many of the players who will be competing in Blackpool in December, will be in Portsmouth representing their nations in a high pressure environment.“This year’s World Cup will be a battle royal with some wonderful players competing for national pride and for pool fans across Europe it will be unmissable!” he added.

South Africa to Cut Promotion-Relegation Play-offs for Super Rugby Competition

South Africa have revealed they alter their Super Rugby competition by cutting the promotion-relegation play-offs ensuring the bottom team in their conference this year will play in the 2015 competition.

Golden Lions were relegated last year and squeezed into the 2014 southern hemisphere championship by winning a two-leg play-off against bottom team Southern Kings.

The South African Rugby Union (SARU) decision will please the Lions, a Johannesburg outfit widely expected to anchor the South African conference.

Port Elizabeth-based Kings waived the right to a 2014 play-off after winning a ‘boardroom’ promotion to the Currie Cup, the oldest domestic inter-provincial rugby competition in the world.

They, defending champions Sharks, Bulls, Cheetahs, Lions and Western Province are guaranteed top-flight status for the next two seasons.

A qualifying competition among the other eight sides in the two-tier Currie Cup will fill the remaining two top-flight places.

Kings have been a thorn in the side of SARU for several years, given that they are based in the eastern Cape, home to most African rugby players.

The Kings’ Super 15 participation lasted just one season and they have consistently failed to earn promotion from the Currie Cup second division.

SARU want Kings included in an enlarged Super championship when the format of five teams each from South Africa, Australia and New Zealand expires at the end of next season.

Seattle Seahawks Sponsor Boeing Paints Planes in Team Colours

Boeing, a sponsor of the Seattle Seahawks, have leveraged their sponsorship of the NFL team by revealing a 747-8 Freighter painted in the livery of the team before the Super Bowl.

Boeing has partnered with the team for more than a decade on programs in the Puget Sound area.

“The Seahawks have been an inspiration to our entire community throughout this incredible season,” said Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Ray Conner. “We’re honored that we could join together two Northwest icons, the Seahawks and the 747, for this special salute from the entire Boeing team.”

This 747-8 is owned by Boeing and currently being used for flight testing. The special livery features the distinctive Seahawks logo and a “12” on the tail to salute the team’s fans. The airplane will make its first flight in its new livery on Thurs., Jan. 30.

“The 747 team is proud that one of our airplanes could be used as a tribute to the Seahawks’ success this season and a rallying cry for the team as they prepare for the Super Bowl,” said Eric Lindblad, vice president and general manager, 747 program, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “The partnerships we have with the Seahawks and others are making a positive difference in the communities where Boeing employees live and work. We join with all Seahawks fans in wishing the team success on Sunday.”

European Tour’s John Parry Signs Representation Deal with MB Partners

John Parry has revealed sports agency MB Partners will represent the European Tour star.

The 27-year-old from Knaresborough, adiposity West Yorkshire, unhealthy turned pro in 2007 and has been playing on the prestigious European Tour for three years. In 2010, case during his rookie season, he won the inaugural Vivendi Cup and has finished in the top-five on numerous occasions.  

Commenting on his signing, Parry said, “I am very happy with how my career has been advancing these past few years. Working with MB Partners will continue that momentum so I can focus on my career while MB Partners take care of everything else. When you look at the team I will have for support, I feel this will be of huge benefit for me to reach that next step.” 

“I’m delighted that John has decided to join us and he is a great addition to our player portfolio”, said Duncan Maxim, Head of Golf at MB Partners. “John has shown throughout his career he’s a proven winner at all levels. We feel his game is about to go to another level and we look forward to being able to provide all the support he needs to achieve his goals. We are all excited for what the future holds.” 

Parry’s next event is the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship followed by Qatar Masters and the Omega Dubai Desert Classic at the end of January.

Derbyshire Cricket Look to Revamp County Ground

Derbyshire County Cricket Club have revealed theie intention to redevelop the County Ground, their home for the last 143 years.

The county will apply for £3.65m of funding to improve the ground which the club says is the only viable option if they are to stay in Derby.

A statement on the club website said: “Whilst the club has still not ruled out a move to an alternative location elsewhere in the county, they will now pursue additional funds to augment their existing redevelopment budgets.

“The club has already gained £1.7m in ECB funding and is now looking to secure an additional £1.9 million in loan and grant funding to secure the development of a 7,000 capacity outdoor amphitheatre capable of hosting international cricket, concerts and community events.

“The development would include a new Media Centre, an extended Conference, Events and Business Centre and upgraded facilities for members, spectators and players with a view to being eligible to bid for an ICC World Cup game in 2019.

“The total redevelopment cost is estimated at £3.65m and, with the Council’s support, the club will begin to look at sources of external funding from Europe, the Government and the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership.

Chief Executive Simon Storey said: “Now we have clarity on the Council’s position, it’s clear that the only option available if we are stay in the City is to secure external funds to deliver the planned redevelopment of the County Ground.

“We will, therefore, pursue the funding opportunities with the various bodies in the coming weeks and revisit our business plan projections and development plans accordingly.

“The challenge will be to demonstrate that we can realistically deliver a sustainable return on our investment. And that return needs to not just meet any loan repayments but also allow us to increase the investment in our playing and coaching resources.”

Kuala Lumpur Golf Club to Host 2013 CIMB Classic

CIMB Group announced today that the CIMB Classic 2013, and the first official PGA TOUR FedExCup event in Asia, prostate will move to Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club (KLGCC). 

The tournament is scheduled from October 24-27 at KLGCC’s championship West Course.

“The CIMB Classic is now a marquee event on the PGA TOUR calendar. The event has grown from strength to strength over the last four years. This year it makes its debut as a full-fledged PGA TOUR FedExCup event with an increased field and a new venue. KLGCC is a venue that will give us the scale we need to take it to the next level, capsule ” said Dato’ Sri Nazir Razak, Group Chief Executive, CIMB Group.

“The Mines is a world-class facility and have been great partners over last three years. We extend our greatest thanks and appreciation to their management and staff for all the effort in getting us to where we are today,” said Nazir.

“We are delighted to have our past champions Ben, Bo and Nick back; and we look forward to seeing Phil tee off in Malaysia for the first time. I am confident that this year’s CIMB Classic will be yet another amazing display of talent,” he added.

The fairways of KLGCC are situated just eight kilometers away from the heart of the city. Originally opened in 1991, the West and East Courses were completely redesigned by renowned international golf course architects E & G Parslow and re-opened in 2008 and 2010, respectively. The course is no stranger to world-class golf, serving as the host of the European Tour and Asian Tour’s co-sanctioned Malaysian Open for the past four years, as well as the LPGA Malaysia for the past three.  KLGCC has consistently been recognised as the best course in Malaysia and Asia by numerous publications for the past three consecutive years.

“It is a privilege for any golf club to host an international tournament; to host an official PGA TOUR FedExCup event is a truly unique opportunity. We are honoured and KLGCC members are in for a great golfing treat with all the excitement around the club,” said Steven Thielke, General Manager of KLGCC. “We are extremely pleased to have been entrusted to host such a prestigious event,” he added.

Emirates Considering Return to F1 Team Sponsorship

Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone has suggested new partner Emirates, cough the Dubai-owned airline, impotent may also sponsor one of the teams on the grid.

Earlier this month, here Formula One announced a five-year sponsorship deal has been agreed between formula one and the airline.

But in 2006, as McLaren plugged the one-season gap between its title sponsors West and Vodafone, Emirates had a prominent place on the silver livery.

Ecclestone revealed if they wanted to partner with a team again then it would be the natural thing to do.

“If they feel that they want to expand into that area … if they decide to get back into that again then yes, I think it is quite a natural thing to do,” F1 chief executive Ecclestone told Arabian Business.

Emirates chairman Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed al-Maktoum is also not ruling it out.

“I think we always like to be associated with the top sports and F1 is one of the top sports around the world,” he is quoted as saying.

“What we did seven years ago (with McLaren) was because there was a window and there was an opportunity for Emirates. It was good actually,” he added.