It was another busy year in the sports business world in 2023, with widespread activity across the industry by sporting organizations, federations, teams, agencies, and brands. There were also several major events including the FIFA Women's World Cup and Rugby World Cup.
Hundreds of sponsorship and media rights deals were struck, while we saw the launch of new competitions and several movers and shakers with significant senior appointments across the sector.
Having covered a wide range of sports from around the world throughout the year, here are our 10 most-read stories of 2023:
1. 14 August - NRL names four clubs for Las Vegas 2024 season-opener
The Brisbane Broncos, Manly Sea Eagles, South Sydney Rabbitohs, and Sydney Roosters will play at the Allegiant Stadium.
2. 1 February - Prime Hydration named global sports drink of UFC
The partnership will see Prime branding integrated into key UFC assets.
3. 26 September - Sleeve deals for Australia and South Africa ahead of Cricket World Cup
Cricket Australia has tied up with HCL Technologies, while Cricket South Africa has brought in Amul.
4. 15 August - AFC to revamp men’s club competitions, launches Women’s Champions League
The men’s competition will be divided into three tiers, while the inaugural WCL will start in 2024-25.
5. 1 September - Newcastle end Castore deal to reunite with Adidas
The brand previously supplied the north-east club’s kits between 1995 and 2010.
6. 5 June - LaLiga enters new era with rebrand
The new branding comes as Spanish soccer looks at broadening its international reach.
7. 22 November - Signal: Everton deducted 10 points for EPL rules breach
Top-flight clubs in the EPL are only permitted to lose £105 million over three years.
8. 12 July - MSC Cruises replaces Acqua Lete as main Napoli shirt sponsor
The cruise brand first became a Napoli commercial partner in 2011.
9. 7 September - Apex launches €50m athlete-driven fund to strengthen investment proposition
The fund has been backed by several sports stars from across soccer and F1.
10. 28 July - NTN in as partner of World Athletics before Budapest Championships
The tie-up, overall, covers all World Athletics events until the end of next year.
