Latest news with #Sport360X
Sport360
15-05-2025
- Business
- Sport360
SPIA to make Abu Dhabi debut, marking new era for Middle East sport
Sports Industry Awards [SPIA] is coming to Abu Dhabi for the first time, signaling a bold new chapter for the Middle East's premier celebration of sporting excellence. Since its inception in 2012, SPIA has proudly recognised achievements across individuals, entities, facilities and campaigns that have driven the growth of sport throughout the region. Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi is Strategic Partner for May 20's glittering 12th edition at the capital's Space42 Arena, with further support provided by Abu Dhabi Sports Council. The event is organised by Sport360X – a leading digital publisher and sports consultancy agency – and Interact, a social impact and marketing agency. Hospitality packages are still available on the official SPIA website for 2025's gala evening, which will reveal winners across 19 competitive categories selected via an independent judging process. This prestigious event provides a stage to celebrate exceptional achievements, connect with industry leaders and highlight the latest innovations shaping the world of sport. Bassam Nawfal, Managing Director of Sport360X, said: 'We're thrilled to present the 12th edition of SPIA, an especially significant occasion as we host the event in Abu Dhabi for the very first time. 'This exciting new chapter would not have been possible without the outstanding support of Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi Sports Council, plus our other partners and sponsors, to whom we extend our sincere gratitude. 'Sport in the Middle East continues to thrive, and we are proud to have received an exceptional array of submissions from visionary organisations and remarkable individuals. The innovative Space42 Arena sets the stage for what promises to be a landmark celebration of sporting excellence in the region. 'At Sport360X, we are honoured to carry the responsibility of awarding the industry's finest through a transparent, fair and meticulous judging process. 'SPIA has grown into the region's leading sports industry celebration and we can't wait to welcome you all on May 20.' The judging process for SPIA is marked by thoroughness and transparency – and 2025's edition was no different. Since the inception of the Awards, each submission has undergone rigorous assessment, measured against defined criteria by a panel with extensive expertise across various areas of the sports sector, ensuring the process is conducted with the highest levels of integrity and fairness. Transparency is of utmost importance, with 16 judges following a systematic and impartial approach to guarantee a fair playing field for all entrants. These included H.H. Princess Nouf AlSaud (General Manager – Marketing, Ministry of Sport Saudi Arabia), H.E. Ali Al Ali (CEO & Board Member, Dubai Racing Club), Richard Scudamore (Former Executive Chairman & CEO, Premier League) and Marina Storti (CEO, WTA Ventures). Through careful deliberation and constructive discussion, the panel selects worthy winners who have demonstrated exceptional achievements and contributions within their respective fields. Gold Sponsors for SPIA 2025 are Motus One and Plan B. Marca return as Media Partner, giving the event access to a network of more than 93 million monthly unique users at one of the world's greatest publications. MG – Inter Emirates Motors Subsidiary of Ali & Sons Holding – have signed up as Silver Sponsors. ABOUT THE ORGANISERS Sport360X Sport360X has been telling the Middle East's very best sports stories for more than a decade across video, social, gaming and events. It boasts the narrative and creative skills, in Arabic and English, to produce market-leading content that builds affinity with fans and commercial partners alike. Access is provided to more than 15m followers on Sport360X's native social media platforms, plus websites that generate more than 12m monthly page views. Interact Interact was founded in 2014 from a bold vision to inspire a healthier, more active generation. As the owners of the Sports Industry Series, Interact partners with leading brands and government bodies to embed healthy behaviours deep within communities. Their work spans the design, delivery and promotion of impactful, large-scale initiatives and events that boost physical activity, support healthier eating, and improve mental well-being across diverse population. Sport Industry Series October 2024's game-changing partnership saw Interact's Sport Industry Forum and Sport360X's SPIA come together under Sport Industry Series. By combining the skills and network of both organisations, this union creates even greater value for the region's sport sector.
Sport360
21-02-2025
- Business
- Sport360
The Inaugral Edition of Sport Industry Series: The Majlis Draws Top Industry Leaders to the Capital
More than 80 senior professionals from the sports industry gathered in Abu Dhabi for the highly anticipated debut of Sport Industry Series: The Majlis, an exclusive event designed to foster candid discussions and high-level networking. Launched by the founders of the Sport Industry Series, Interact and Sport360X, The Majlis sets a new benchmark for industry engagement in the region. Hosted against the stunning backdrop of the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open on February 6, the invite-only gathering brought together C-suite executives from leading sports organisations for a day of thought-provoking discussions and interactive dialogue. The event, hosted by renowned sports broadcaster Chris McHardy, delivered on the Sport Industry Series (SIS) promise – creating an intimate platform for decision-makers to exchange insights and drive industry innovation. The event kicked off with a highly insightful panel discussion featuring three distinguished industry leaders in the form of Brian Lott, Chief Communications Officer, Mubadala; Hamda Al Mansoori, Strategic Planning Director, Abu Dhabi Sports Council; and Danny Klima, General Manager, Zayed Sports City, OVG Middle East. Together, they explored the evolving landscape of Abu Dhabi's sports industry, including investment trends and future growth opportunities. It was followed by an in-depth feature interview with Melissa Moncada—Founder and CEO, Aurora Rise Group; Executive Vice Chairwoman, Colnago. She shared insights about the challenges and triumphs of women in cycling, emphasising the strides made in recent years. 'It is amazing to see so many fans come here to support women's tennis,' she stated. 'It is also incredible to see big companies like Mubadala extending their support to grow the game among women. 'This gives us optimism too, and I urge the fans to come out and show similar support towards women's cycling.' Beyond the panel and interviews, attendees engaged in a networking lunch, providing a rare opportunity to engage directly with other industry leaders. 'It has thrown more light upon how Abu Dhabi is becoming the hub of sports and entertainment, along with the massive investment coming into the sports industry in the region as a whole.' The launch of The Majlis marks the beginning of a transformative chapter for the sports industry in the Middle East. By combining Interact's expertise in delivering the Sport Industry Forum with Sport360X's legacy of the Sports Industry Awards, we're creating something truly unique,' said Mark Guildea, Managing Director of Interact. 'The Majlis represents a new era of high-level, interactive engagement in the Middle East's dynamic sports industry,' said Bassam Nawfal, Sport360X Managing Director. 'By creating a more intimate setting, we're enabling C-suite executives to dive deeper into the key issues shaping the industry. 'This is not just about sharing knowledge—it's about fostering collaboration, sparking innovation, and building relationships that will drive the future. The inaugural edition in Abu Dhabi provides a unique opportunity to develop how we meaningfully connect and learn from one another.' With more editions of The Majlis on the horizon, the Sport Industry Series is set to redefine how sports leaders connect, collaborate, and drive the industry forward. About Sport Industry Forum (SIF): The Sport Industry Forum, organised by Interact, is the leading sport business conference for networking, knowledge sharing, and thought leadership. It brings together professionals, innovators, and decision-makers to discuss the latest trends and challenges in sports across the Middle East. About Sports Industry Awards (SPIA): The Sports Industry Awards, established by Sport360X, celebrate excellence in the sports sector, recognising outstanding achievements by individuals, teams, and organisations. SPIA highlights the best practices and innovations that drive the sports industry forward. Submissions are now open for the 12th edition. Media contacts: India Beckwith, Interact – E: [email protected] Marketing Team, Sport360X – E: [email protected]
Sport360
05-02-2025
- Business
- Sport360
Sport Industry Series: The Majlis offers executives unique insights and exclusive connections
The brand behind the prestigious Sport Industry Forum and Sports Industry Awards is proud to introduce Sport Industry Series: The Majlis, an exclusive, invite-only event designed for high-level sports business professionals. Hosted by renowned broadcaster Chris McHardy, The Majlis – part of the groundbreaking SIS partnership launched by Interact and Sport360X last October – provides an intimate setting for senior decision-makers to engage in candid, high-level discussions. Unlike larger conferences, the event focuses on interactive dialogue, allowing attendees to converse directly with industry leaders and gain unique insights. Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open will provide an inspirational backdrop for February 6's impactful inaugural edition. Invitations are limited to C-suite executives. 'It's exciting to launch the first-ever Sport Industry Series: The Majlis at Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open and we are very grateful to Mubadala for the opportunity,' said Sally Corander, Founder and Director of Interact. 'The event is a mini version of our annual Forum and brings together Government, brands, and rights holders for top-level discussion, high-value networking and a shared experience of world-class tennis. 'Discussions at The Majlis will look at the impact of the UAE's major sporting events – both in elevating the nation's global profile and driving meaningful community engagement. With 2025 declared the UAE's 'Year of Community,' the speakers will discuss what this means for sport and how the sector can leverage major events to foster greater participation and social impact. 'I am looking forward to listening to our panelists, including Brian Lott, Chief Communications Officer for Mubadala; Hamda Al Mansoori, Strategic Planning Director, Abu Dhabi Sports Council; and Danny Klima, General Manager, Zayed Sports City, Ethara, for what promises to be an inspiring afternoon.' There will also be a featured interview with Melissa Moncada – Founder and CEO, Aurora Rise Group; Executive Chairwoman, Colnago. Fostering collaboration and thought leadership, The Majlis creates an environment where relationships thrive and new ideas emerge. Industry leaders can engage in real-time problem-solving and continue staying ahead in the evolving sports business. 'The Majlis represents a new era of high-level, interactive engagement in the Middle East's dynamic sports industry,' said Bassam Nawfal, Sport360X Managing Director. 'By creating a more intimate setting, we're enabling C-suite executives to dive deeper into the key issues shaping the industry. 'This is not just about sharing knowledge—it's about fostering collaboration, sparking innovation and building relationships that will drive the future. The inaugural edition in Abu Dhabi provides a unique opportunity to develop how we meaningfully connect and learn from one another.' With The Majlis, Sport Industry Series is setting a new standard for networking and discussion, offering an unparalleled opportunity for executives to shape the sport industry's future. About Sport Industry Forum (SIF): The Sport Industry Forum, established by Interact, is the leading sport business conference for networking, knowledge sharing and thought leadership. It brings together professionals, innovators and decision-makers to discuss the latest trends and challenges in sports. About Sports Industry Awards (SPIA): The Sports Industry Awards, established by Sport360X, celebrate excellence in the sports sector, recognising outstanding achievements by individuals, teams and organisations. SPIA highlights the best practices and innovations that drive the sports industry forward. Submissions are now open for the 12th edition. Media contacts: India Beckwith, Interact – E: [email protected] Marketing Team, Sport360X – E: [email protected]
