Shorts: Bristol Bears, Formula 1, Millwall Romans
Bristol Bears have extended their partnership with specialist IT and communications provider Croft.
Under the new deal, Croft’s logo will feature on the sleeves of the Premiership club’s home, away, and Champions Cup shirts.
Last year, Croft acquired Blackstar Solutions, which is also a partner of the Premiership Rugby club.
Croft will continue to provide internet connection at the club’s 27,000-capacity Ashton Gate Stadium, and at the High Performance Centre training facility.
Nick Smith, Chief Operating Officer at Croft, said, “At Croft, we’re not just sponsors – we’re passionate fans who share the same values and vision as the club.
“Renewing our sponsorship was an easy decision because of this strong alignment.”
The Formula 1 Exhibition London is set to officially open its doors on Friday 23rd August at ExCeL London.
The critically acclaimed exhibition, which features seven iconic Championship-winning cars, arrives in the English capital after runs in Madrid, Vienna and Toronto.
1996 Formula 1 world champion Damon Hill visited the exhibition on Tuesday and was joined the exhibition’s lead curator Timothy Harvey to reveal that Lewis Hamilton’s 2018 record-breaking Mercedes AMG F1 W09 EQ Power+ will be exclusively displayed at the London show.
Packed with contributions and memorabilia from Formula 1’s greatest teams and drivers, the London show pays homage to the British Grand Prix and its contribution to motorsport, through a collaboration with Silverstone Museum. In a European first it also features state-of-the-art simulators, offering fans the opportunity to get behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car and win tickets for the 2025 British Grand Prix, as well as a host of interactive experiences for all the family to enjoy.
Damon Hill, commented,“It’s been an incredible honour to be involved in The F1 Exhibition. Formula 1 has always been a key part of Britain’s sporting heritage, so it is only right for London to be the next host city for the exhibition. This special show connects fans both old and new with the exciting world of Formula 1. I cannot wait for visitors to take a journey through the history of Formula 1 and learn more about the sport that is loved by millions around the world. It really is a must see!”
Millwall Romans, the London-based football club’s dedicated LGBT team, has announced a new partnership with global creative PR agency The Romans.
Formed in 2006, Millwall Romans play in the London Unity League where they have been crowned champions for the past two seasons.
As per the new agreement, The Romans’ logo will feature on the front of Millwall Romans’ home and away shirts for the 2024/25 campaign, worn by Millwall Romans’ first team, as well as the Pride team that plays in Division Two of the Unity League.
The shirts will be worn across all league matches and two National Cup tournaments.
Millwall Romans manager Paul Loding, commented, “This partnership with The Romans marks a significant milestone for us. Their support is a boost as we continue our mission of breaking down barriers and promoting inclusivity within football.
“We look forward to working together on various initiatives, including London Pride, to make a meaningful impact in the community.”
“The Romans’ involvement with The Millwall Romans goes beyond just sponsorship. It represents a shared vision of creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone in football. Through this partnership, we aim to inspire others to embrace diversity and inclusivity, both on and off the field.”
Everyone Active, a UK operator of gyms, leisure centres and swim facilities, has announced Our Future Health as a new sports partner.
The partnership will see Everyone Active help raise awareness of Our Future Health, the UK’s largest ever health research programme, among their members across more than 230 sites.
This partnership will promote a shared message from both organisations – to enable everyone to live longer and healthier lives, both through physical activity with Everyone Active and contributing to health research via Our Future Health.
Our Future Health is working with the NHS to recruit up to 5 million adult volunteers to create a detailed picture of health in the UK, which will be ‘a world-leading resource for health research.’
Dr Raghib Ali, Chief Executive and Chief Medical Officer at Our Future Health, said, “We’re really pleased about this partnership with Everyone Active because it demonstrates our shared commitment to encouraging local communities to get proactive about their health. By taking part in Our Future Health, people will be helping health researchers make discoveries that benefit the health of their community. We want to prevent health conditions before they arise, so people can stay in good health for longer, which is something Everyone Active really encourages.”
Dundee United has confirmed a new partnership with Lost Shore Surf Resort.
The inland surfing destination that offers luxury accommodation, dining, surf schools, a surf shop, and wellness treatments will benefit from its logo featuring on the upper back of Dundee’s women’s team shirts.
Mark Cunningham, Head of Commercial and Sponsorship at Dundee, commented, “We are excited to partner with Lost Shore Surf Resort, a world-class destination that aligns perfectly with our vision of innovation and community engagement. It’s an exciting project they’re building and we are delighted to have their support for the upcoming season.”
Exeter Chiefs and Exeter college have teamed up to help develop young rugby union talent throughout the region, from grassroots to professional level.
For the upcoming 2024/25 season, more than 25 Exeter College alumni have been selected across the Chiefs’ men’s and women’s teams.
The alliance offers a pathway for young athletes, combining both education and elite sports training with the hope of producing more talented players in the future.
Rob Baxter, Director of Rugby at Exeter Chiefs said, “Exeter College is a hugely important part of our ongoing success. Not only because they are one of our academy centres, making them a hub and focal point for aspiring young players.”
Chris Wall, Sports Academy Manager at Exeter College added, “Exeter College provides an excellent grounding, allowing young men and women to link full-time education with their rugby ambitions.”
England Rugby’s official charity, the RFU Injured Players Foundation (IPF), has penned a new deal with Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby.
The IPF, which supports players who have sustained spinal cord or brain injuries whilst competing, is also a partner of GB Wheelchair Rugby (GBWR).
The alliance will aim to support Team GB in the LA Paralympic Games by creating content and providing opportunities for IPF recipients and fans to get active.
The collaboration will also promote the importance of physical and mental well-being.
The organisations will additionally launch a content series where amateur and elite athletes will discuss the impact of sport on their lives.
Jason Brisbane, Chief Executive of GBWR said, “I’m delighted we are in a position to formally announce our partnership with the IPF through our 28 for 28 initiative on our journey to the LA28 Paralympic Games.”
“With two IPF players, Jack Smith and Kieran Flynn named in our squad for the 2024 Paralympics in Paris, we are excited to work together to showcase the Paralympic experience for both athletes and the wider team as we aim to defend our title from Tokyo 2020.”
London-based production house Aurora Media Worldwide has expanded into the Middle East announced the appointment of James Pearce to the newly created role of Managing Director, MENA.
This strategic move is underpinned by the opening of a new Riyadh office alongside advanced plans to also operate a production hub in Abu Dhabi.
The new production bases will be led by James Pearce, who previously held the post of Partnerships Director at Aurora.
Lawrence Duffy, CEO of Aurora Media Worldwide, said, “Aurora’s unique position in the marketplace for innovative, high-quality content makes this expansion a natural progression.
“Our pioneering approach and focus on innovation aligns perfectly with the UAE and Saudi Arabia’s own ambitions to forge ahead with building on the growing interest in sport, entertainment and major events.”
James Pearce, added, “I am thrilled to lead Aurora’s expansion in the Middle East. The region is rich with talent and opportunity, and we are eager to harness and contribute to its growing media landscape.”
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