Matchroom Secures Major Pitch Investment

Matchroom Sport has announced a new global partnership with sports marketing agency Pitch International, which includes ‘significant investment’. 

The deal will see London-based Pitch International acquire a minority stake holding in Matchroom Sport, the sports management and promotion that is best known for its work in boxing and snooker.

As per the agreement, the founding Hearn family will retain majority control.

The two organisations have described the partnership as a ‘new strategic alignment’ that will aim to ‘futureproof Matchroom’s position’ in global sport with a view to ‘collaborating on international media rights, huge global events and major sports sponsorships across the Matchroom Group portfolio’.

This includes Matchroom Boxing, the Professional Darts Corporation, World Snooker and Matchroom MultiSport. 

Matchroom Sport Chairman, Eddie Hearn, said, “I am delighted to welcome Pitch International to the Matchroom family. When my Dad founded our business over 40 years ago in a snooker hall in Romford, Essex, we never expected to be in this position today as a global leader in sports promotion and events.

“Today, he stands as a proud President as we plan for sustained success and continued global growth across Matchroom Sport. As our company continues to evolve, Pitch International’s investment will help us unlock many more exciting milestones and, ultimately, enhance our formidable reputation as market leaders and innovators.”

Matchroom Sport President, Barry Hearn OBE, added, “This unique partnership with Pitch International heralds a momentous day for Matchroom – and it lays the foundations for our future growth and success.

Pitch International Executive Chairman, Oliver Slipper, commented, “I have worked with Matchroom for over 20 years and have the upmost respect for the incredible business they have built. Together this deal strengthens both Pitch International and Matchroom and I am excited to work together to create new sports events, further globalise our respective audiences and continue the outstanding growth both companies have achieved in the last decade.”

Pitch International, which works across global media rights representation, management and delivery of sports events and hospitality, sponsorship advisory services and production, now adds Matchroom Sport to its extensive list of partners and clients. These include the EFL, ECB, and World Rugby.