Industry Shorts: Antoine Griezmann, Extreme E, Super League
Antoine Griezmann has terminated his partnership deal with Chinese technology brand Huawei, citing ‘strong suspicions’ that its facial recognition tech has been used in the repression of the mostly-Muslim Uighur population.
In an Instagram post, the Barcelona star asked the company not to simply deny the accusations, but to ‘take concrete actions… to condemn this mass repression.’
A Huawei spokesperson said: “We would like to extend an invitation to speak to him personally, to explain the work that is currently being done at the highest level, inside the company, to address the issues of human rights, equality, and discrimination at all levels.”
Extreme E has appointed a new Race Director and Sporting Manager as it builds up to its inaugural season in 2021.
The all-electric off-road series has appointed Formula E Race Director Scot Elkins to the same role at Extreme E, and Guy Nicholls as Sporting Manager.
Nicholls, has worked across a number of motorsport properties during more than 30 years in the industry, managing projects and operations in the likes of the A1 Grand Prix, also serving as Championship Coordinator at Lamborghini’s Super Trofeo series.
The Leigh Centurions will replace the Toronto Wolfpack in next year’s Betfred Super League.
The Canadian club withdrew from the league in July, citing financial issues caused by the coronavirus pandemic, and were subsequently voted out of next year’s competition too. An independent panel, led by Lord Jonathan Caine and comprising members of the RFL and the Super League made the decision to award the place to Leigh.
The club won the spot beating bids from five other Championship sides. The new Super League season will begin in March.
The Sport Industry NextGen Leaders 2020 attended an exclusive virtual masterclass with broadcaster and media consultant James Pearce.
The session, held on a video call, saw the Leaders gain tips, tricks, and practical advice on how to improve their communication skills, with insights into pitching for business, storytelling, and dealing with difficult questions – delivered by former BBC Olympics Correspondent James Pearce.
The session focused on ensuring that key messages are delivered in as engaging a manner as possible to capture the attention of fleeting listeners. Leaders were also given the skills to thrive under the pressure of a live media interview, answering difficult questions without compromising key messaging or giving up a quote. READ MORE
Mizuno, Zwift, and iPRO Hydrate have all signed up to back comedian Eddie Izzard’s latest marathon effort.
The star will embark on 31 marathons in 31 days throughout January, with a new stand-up gig each night.
The challenge will see Izzard run on a Woodway treadmill, with each marathon virtually taking him through a different city. He will also invite supporters to run with him in each ‘city’, before performing to a global online audience in the evening.
Online giving platform Crowdfunder has also backed the effort, and will accept donations from supporters which will go to a variety of charities.
