The Sports Tech Allstars Podcast

In this episode of the Sports Tech AllStars Podcast, we present Uday Khanna, Co-Founder of 1406 Park Lane Partners and angel investor in sports tech.

The conversation explores how a career in M&A transaction advisory led Uday to co-found an early stage investment syndicate focused on sports, emerging sports and wellness, why bringing institutional rigour to pre-seed investing is a genuine edge, and how groups like EBAN Sports are filling a critical gap in the European sports tech funding landscape.

Takeaways

• 1406 Park Lane Partners combines M&A advisory, investment banking and private equity experience to bring institutional discipline to early stage sports tech investing
• The syndicate's core value proposition is smart capital
• Emerging sports, data infrastructure and wellness and fitness are the three primary thesis areas for the syndicate
• Most business angels invest locally by default — cross-border early stage sports tech investment in Europe remains rare and underserved
• Communities like EBAN Sports are crucial for connecting sports industry insiders with experienced investors who understand how to scale businesses
• The gap between early stage venture and PE is exactly where 1406 Park Lane Partners tries to add value — helping founders understand what institutional readiness looks like before they need it
• Sports tech is still early as an asset class — the deal volume and value has not yet caught up with sectors like healthcare or fintech, but the trajectory is clear
• Pre-seed and early seed is where angel syndicates can have the most impact — founders are more open to collaboration before institutional VCs arrive

In this episode of the Sports Tech AllStars Podcast, we present Evan Kirkham, CEO and Co-Founder of Outlier.

The conversation explores how Outlier is building a data-driven sports betting platform that charges bettors directly rather than taking affiliate fees from sportsbooks, why that single decision shapes everything about the product, and where the $11 million Series A company is heading next - including a data acquisition and a new live betting product.

Takeaways

• Outlier charges bettors a subscription fee instead of taking affiliate money from sportsbooks - a deliberate choice that keeps the product fully aligned with the user

• Taking affiliate fees from sportsbooks creates an incentive to funnel users rather than serve them - Outlier refuses to make that trade-off

• The platform is essentially a Bloomberg Terminal for sports bettors, taking users from insight to analysis to bet execution in one seamless flow

• 65% to 70% of Outlier's traffic is NBA, with prop bets driving 95 percent of overall usage

• The US skipped the betting shop era entirely - everyone came to digital sports betting at the same time, which is why adoption has been so fast

• The financialization of sports betting is the defining US trend - bettors will increasingly move in and out of positions like traders, with limit orders and automated execution

• The market is bifurcating between serious data-driven bettors and casual fans who just want entertainment - most products are still trying to serve both at once

• UK bettors have ingrained behaviors tied to legacy sportsbooks - breaking those habits is the core challenge of international expansion

• Outlier is acquiring a data technology provider and launching a net new live in-game betting product

In this episode of the Sports Tech AllStars Podcast, we present Juan Fuentes Fernandez, Director at GSIC Valencia and Co-Chair of EBAN Sports, the sports vertical at the European Business Angel Network.

The conversation explores why European sports tech investment remains fragmented, why industry insiders and experienced investors rarely occupy the same room, and what Juan is building across two organisations to close that gap from a testing lab in Valencia certifying pre-market technologies to a pan-European angel network connecting deal flow across borders.

Takeaways

• Sports tech has two separate worlds - industry insiders who understand the market and experienced investors who have done exits

• GSIC Valencia is a testing lab that certifies sports technologies across up to 60 metrics in cooperation with 58 Valencian sports federations

• The GSIC certification carries real commercial value - it helps startups raise capital and sell to sports organisations that already trust the brand

• Most business angels invest locally by default - EBAN Sports exists to break down the regulatory and knowledge barriers that prevent cross-border early-stage investment in Europe

• There are not yet enough sports tech unicorn exits to attract experienced investors organically - EBAN Sports is accelerating that by bringing seasoned angels into the space

• Athletes are an underutilised capital source - GSIC is developing bootcamps to help athletes become investors and entrepreneurs

• Juan's investment thesis centres on B2C emerging sports like CrossFit and running, founders with an international mindset, and companies with product-market fit that need help expanding globally

• A founder who gets on a plane to raise money in foreign markets is already demonstrating the mentality needed to scale internationally

  
  

In this episode of the Sports Tech AllStars Podcast, we present Josh Helmrich, Senior Director of Media Strategy, Business Development and Next Gen Stats at the NFL.

The conversation explores how the NFL went from zero player tracking data to a platform that powers broadcast graphics, officiating decisions, coaching strategy, health and safety research and the Madden video game - and what the next evolution of that platform looks like now that optical tracking has entered the picture.

Takeaways

• Next Gen Stats started as a working project name that nobody gave much thought

• The NFL chose wearable ultra-wideband tracking over optical at the start because of the unique occlusion challenges in American football 

• In the first game of tracking, the NFL collected more data than in the entire history of the league combined

• Marrying optical and wearable tracking together is the real unlock 

• The Big Data Bowl identified a winning rushing yards model from a Japanese team that had never watched American football and did not speak English

• Ball tracking at the bottom of a pile-up remains an unsolved problem 

• The NFL now has 29 data points per player at 10 frames per second 

• Innovation partners do not need to wait for the NFL to come to them 

• The Big Data Bowl has become a talent pipeline, placing graduates directly into NFL clubs and the league office

In this episode of the Sports Tech AllStars Podcast, we present Jeffrey Hintz, VP of Innovation at Indiana Sports Corp and Executive Director at SportsTech HQ.

The conversation explores why Indianapolis - home to the NFL Combine, NCAA headquarters, IndyCar, the new Cadillac F1 team, and 50 plus sports tech companies - is one of the most overlooked sports tech ecosystems in the world, and how Jeff is building the infrastructure to put it firmly on the global map.

Takeaways

• Indiana is home to the NFL Combine, NCAA, IndyCar, USA Football, USA Track and Field, USA Gymnastics, the Cadillac F1 team and the National High School Sports Federation 

• The Indiana Sports Corp was the first sports commission ever founded in the US, established in 1979, and has since inspired over 350 similar organisations globally

• Sports Tech HQ is not an accelerator or co-working space 

• Infrastructure that connects startups to pro teams, governing bodies, universities and investors

• Indiana offers a genuine competitive advantage for sports tech companies: denser access to decision-makers and faster traction than larger, noisier markets

• Consolidation in athlete performance tech is accelerating - the trend is toward one platform that manages and measures everything

• Youth sports globally is still largely run on spreadsheets and payment apps - the disruption opportunity remains wide open

• The over-monetisation of fans is an emerging tension in US sport, mirroring conversations already happening in European football

• Local fans create the atmosphere and the product - losing them to pricing pressure risks killing the golden goose

• Fan-owned models like the German 50+1 rule preserve exactly what makes sport worth watching in the first place

In this episode of the Sports Tech AllStars Podcast, we present Andrew Powell, CEO and Co-Founder of Ethos.

The conversation explores how two college roommates built a human readiness platform out of a dorm room at UNC, why the mental side of sport remains the most underinvested edge in elite performance, and how the same technology that helped the Seattle Seahawks win a Super Bowl is now training US Air Force fighter pilots.

Takeaways

• The mental side of sport is still the most underserved performance lever

• Ethos started as Duolingo for sports playbooks and has evolved into a full human readiness platform serving the NFL, NCAA, US military and enterprise clients

• Coaches spend 95% of their time finding insights and only 5% ensuring players actually understand them - Ethos flips that ratio

• Michigan credited Ethos insights with a game-changing interception in the national championship game

• The translation from NFL playbook training to fighter pilot combat tactics was more direct than expected 

• The majority of Ethos revenue now comes from the US Department of Defense, with sports and commercial clients each representing around 20%

• AI agent workflows for coaching staffs are the next frontier 

• NIL and the professionalization of college sports are creating new commercial opportunities that the industry is still structuring around

• More data and better tools do not homogenise sport 

In this episode of the Sports Tech AllStars Podcast, we present Lisa Währer, Co-Founder and Managing Director of FC Viktoria Berlin.

The conversation explores how six women with a startup mindset took over one of Germany's oldest football clubs and are building something that looks nothing like traditional German football - from bold branding and digital ticketing to securing the first European investment from Monarch Collective, the fund behind Angel City FC.

Takeaways

• FC Viktoria Berlin is Germany's first fully female-led football club, operating across both men's and women's sides

• The startup mindset is not a marketing angle - several of the six co-founders come directly from the startup and angel investing world

• Women's football creates a fundamentally different matchday atmosphere - more inclusive, more family-friendly, and commercially distinct from the men's game

• Berlin had no dominant sports team and no professional women's football presence

• Monarch Collective's first European investment signals growing institutional confidence in women's football as an asset class

• The gender data gap in football is real 

• Multi-club ownership models make particular sense in women's football where knowledge transfer and shared infrastructure accelerate professionalization

• Germany's 50+1 rule continues to deter investors who can find more control 

• The next 12 months are about scaling revenue, building toward profitability, and preparing for first division football

  
  

In this episode of the Sports Tech AllStars Podcast, we present John Stewart, CEO and Co-Founder of FastBreak AI.

The conversation explores how a routing and scheduling engine built for field sales became the dominant infrastructure behind professional sports scheduling globally, and how FastBreak AI is now leveraging that same technology to transform the $70 billion youth sports market in the United States.

Takeaways

• Professional sports scheduling is one of the most complex combinatorial math problems in existence

• FastBreak AI is the dominant player in pro sports scheduling globally

• The company entered at the top of the market intentionally

• Youth sports in the US is a $70 billion market ripe for consolidation, with private equity now arriving in force

• Facial scan comparison to sexual predator databases is coming to youth sports ticketing

• Continuous background checks are replacing point-in-time checks for coaches and volunteers working with children

• AI-driven voice prompts may become the default user interface for consumer sports tech applications within the next two years

• Affordability in youth sports is an emerging crisis that technology and smarter operator economics can help solve

• Smart capital - not just more capital - is what changes the trajectory of the sports tech industry

  
  

In this episode of the Sports Tech AllStars Podcast, we present Hendrik Weber, SVP of Sports Innovation at the DFL (Deutsche Fußball Liga).

The conversation explores how German football built the data infrastructure behind one of the world's most-watched leagues, how 3D markerless tracking is reshaping the broadcast product, and how the DFL thinks about its role in fostering sports tech innovation - from startup access to market consolidation dynamics.

Takeaways

• Centralised tech provision to all clubs lifts the competitive baseline across the entire league - not just the top

• 3D markerless tracking is at a genuine inflection point, with EA Sports' acquisition of TRACAB signalling where broadcast storytelling goes next

• Market consolidation in performance tech is natural, but monopoly dynamics create pricing risk - the DFL actively works to keep new entrants coming in

• Invitation-only event formats change the depth of conversation and the quality of knowledge exchange

• The betting and fantasy gaming segment is the next area to watch for a consolidation wave

• The DFL sees performance and media as interconnected - stronger on-pitch product drives commercial upside

• Sports Innovation in Düsseldorf has become a must-attend event because it combines live sport, real technology demos, and genuine cross-sport exchange

In this episode of the SportsTech All-Stars Podcast, we present Eddie Lewis, Founder and President of TOCA Football.

The conversation explores how a self-taught training method, built around a tennis ball machine, became the foundation of one of the most well-funded sports tech companies in the world, and how TOCA Football is now expanding beyond youth training into competitive socialisation with TOCA Social.

Takeaways

• A self-developed training concept can become a $200M+ business if the underlying insight is strong enough

• Legacy team training formats are inefficient at addressing individual technical gaps in soccer players

• TOCA Football's tech evolved from a basic ball machine to an adaptive, AI-driven training system

• Competitive socialisation is a macro trend reshaping how fans engage with sport beyond playing or watching

• Performance tech is moving downstream — from elite clubs to everyday players and youth programs

• Youth sports investment is accelerating and remains a high-conviction area for operators and investors

• The 2026 World Cup in the US is a once-in-a-generation commercial moment for the soccer industry

• Teams and venues that build a flywheel between training and entertainment will define the next era

  
  

In this episode of the Sports Tech Allstars Podcast, we present Matt Virtue, Founder & CEO of Rival.

In this conversation, Matt discusses Rival's mission to create interactive gaming experiences that engage sports fans in a meaningful way. He explains how Rival combines gaming with sports IP to foster community and enhance fan engagement. The discussion covers the importance of gaming in reaching diverse audiences, the success stories of partnerships with organizations like the Detroit Pistons and New Balance, and the future of digital engagement in sports. Matt emphasizes the need for sports organizations to adapt to the evolving landscape and leverage technology to connect with fans effectively.

Takeaways

• Rival aims to create interactive experiences for sports fans.

• The gaming industry has a median age of 35.5 years, indicating a broad audience.

• Engagement through gaming is essential for reaching younger demographics.

• Rival's platform allows for community building among fans.

• Success stories from partners like the Detroit Pistons highlight the effectiveness of Rival's approach.

• Retention rates of 93% indicate strong user engagement on the platform.

• The future of sports engagement lies in digital ecosystems and personalized experiences.

• Rival is focused on creating long-term relationships with fans through gaming.

• The integration of AI and digital tools will enhance fan engagement opportunities.

  
  

In this episode of the Sports Tech Allstars podcast, we present Steven Webster, Founder & CEO of asensei.

In this conversation, Steven shares his journey from being a martial arts coach to creating a technology that recognizes human movement. He discusses the challenges of coaching remotely and how asensei aims to provide real-time feedback through movement recognition technology. The conversation also explores the B2B approach of asensei, its successful use cases in various sectors, and the future of coaching with AI. Webster emphasizes the importance of making fitness accessible and meaningful, leveraging technology to enhance athletic potential and overall health.

Takeaways

• asensei aims to provide real-time coaching feedback.

• The B2B approach allows asensei to serve various industries.

• Successful use cases include partnerships with companies like Tonal and military fitness programs.

• The technology can be applied to rehabilitation and preventative care.

• Webster is excited about the potential of wearable technology in healthcare and fitness.

• The future of coaching may involve on-device AI that can interact conversationally with users.

• asensei's technology is designed to be an ingredient technology.

• Webster's intrinsic motivation is to unlock athletic potential, which he believes can lead to broader human potential..

  
  

Closing out the New Global Sport Conference series, The Sports Tech Allstars Podcast presents Dr. Margarete Schramboeck, Former Minister for Economy & Digital Affairs, Austria, Board Member, Aramco Digital.

In this conversation, Dr. Margarete Schramboeck discusses her journey from private business to public office and her current role in the Saudi sports industry. She highlights the significant changes in Saudi Arabia's sports landscape, driven by Vision 2030, and the integration of technology in sports, including e-gaming and immersive live streaming. Dr. Schramboeck emphasizes the importance of AI and infrastructure in supporting the growth of sports in the region, as well as the unique opportunities presented by the young population of Saudi Arabia. She also shares insights on future developments and her personal connection to sports.

Takeaways

• Saudi Arabia presents a unique opportunity for growth in sports.

• The youth of Saudi Arabia is a driving force in sports development.

• Immersive live streaming will enhance fan experiences.

• Vision 2030 is a well-communicated roadmap for the future.

• Infrastructure is crucial for the success of sports events.

• E-gaming is becoming a significant part of the sports landscape.

• The Drone Champions League represents a new frontier in sports.

• Saudi Arabia is actively promoting women's sports.

  
  

In this episode of the New Global Sport Conference series, The Sports Tech Allstars Podcast presents Jan Alessie, Co-founder & Managing Director - World Football Summit.

In this conversation, Jan discusses the upcoming World Football Summit in Riyadh, highlighting its significance in the context of Saudi Arabia's growing influence in the football world. He reflects on the evolution of perceptions about the region since the first summit and the impact of high-profile events like the World Cup. The discussion also covers the integration of eSports into the sports industry and the strategic localization of events to cater to regional audiences, emphasizing the importance of building a global football community.

Takeaways

• World Football Summit is expanding in Saudi Arabia.

• The event coincides with the 2034 World Cup announcement.

• Perceptions of Saudi Arabia have changed significantly.

• eSports is becoming a vital part of the sports industry.

• Localization of events is key to their success.

• The global community of football professionals is growing.

• Upcoming events include Hong Kong, Madrid, and Riyadh.

• Mexico and Morocco are strategic locations for future events.

• The passion for football in Mexico is immense.

• WFS aims to connect global football communities.

  
  

In this episode of the New Global Sport Conference series, The Sports Tech Allstars Podcast presents Peter Moore, Ex-Chief Executive Officer of Liverpool FC and Owner of Santa Barbara Sky FC.

In this conversation, Peter Moore discusses the evolving relationship between gaming and sports, highlighting how video games have become a gateway to real sports fandom. He reflects on the changing perceptions of video games, the impact of e-sports, and the strategies employed by sports organizations to engage younger audiences. Moore also emphasizes the importance of balancing local fan engagement with global expansion, the infusion of capital in sports, and the unifying power of sports in today's divisive world.

Takeaways

• Gaming has evolved from a niche to a mainstream culture.

• The intersection of gaming and sports is creating new fandoms.

• Saudi Arabia is pioneering an e-sports strategy.

• Video games are now respected as a legitimate form of entertainment.

• Sports organizations are learning from gaming's engagement strategies.

• The balance between local and global audiences is crucial for sports teams.

• Capital infusion is changing the landscape of sports business.

  
  

We are back after our summer hiatus and one where we have been extremely busy. There are quite a few updates to share with you from Team SportsTechX.

All of that will be done in due course but for now let’s focus on this podcast and especially our recent visit to Riyadh where we were back for the New Global Sports Conference, NGSC.

Last year on the pod, we had 

Back after a break, this episode of the Sports Tech Allstars Podcast presents Joe Dunnigan, CEO-Founder of ALT Sports Data.

We discuss the evolving landscape of sports betting, particularly focusing on underrepresented sports. Exploring the challenges and opportunities within the sports betting market, the importance of fan engagement through betting, and the potential for revenue generation for leagues. Joe shares insights on the future of sports tech investments and the strategic direction of ALT Sports Data as they aim to expand their offerings and partnerships.

Takeaways

• Sports betting is a rapidly growing industry with significant revenue potential.

• ALT Sports Data focuses on underrepresented sports to create new betting opportunities.

• Engagement through betting can enhance fan interaction and loyalty.

• The sports betting market is evolving, with operators seeking to diversify their offerings.

• Consumer demand is driving the exploration of alternative sports in betting.

• Leagues can unlock new revenue streams by monetizing their data through betting.

• The integration of betting into sports narratives can enhance fan experiences.

• Emerging technologies are enabling cost-effective solutions for smaller leagues.

• The sports tech investment landscape is shifting towards emerging sports and technologies.

• ALT Sports Data aims to scale its operations to meet increasing demand.

  
  

In this episode of the Sports Tech Allstars podcast, we present Danny Cortenraede, founder and managing partner of In Studio Ventures.

We discuss Danny's journey from the Netherlands to becoming a key player in sports technology investment, the strategies behind InStudio Ventures, and the importance of athlete capital in the investment landscape. Danny shares insights on market opportunities, particularly in youth and women's sports, and highlights the unique advantages of the Los Angeles market for startups. The conversation concludes with a look at the future initiatives of InStudio Ventures and the growing role of athletes in the investment space.

Takeaways

- Danny's journey began in the Netherlands, working in corporate roles before venturing into entrepreneurship.

- He founded InStudio Ventures to help reduce the failure rate of startups in sports technology.

- The firm focuses on investing in companies with at least $1 million in annual revenue.

- Danny emphasizes the importance of strategic partnerships in the investment process.

- InStudio Ventures aims to add value beyond just capital, leveraging relationships in the sports ecosystem.

- The global sports market is expanding, with significant opportunities in youth and women's sports.

- LA is a unique market with numerous sports teams and events, making it a hub for sports technology.

- Startups need to commit to the LA market and build local relationships to succeed.

- Danny's firm is actively involved in educating athletes about investment opportunities.

- The future of sports technology is promising, with a focus on AI and analytics.

🎙 In lieu of the Global Sports Tech Ecosystem Report 2025, the Sports Tech Allstars Podcast presents Prashant Khanna, 

We discuss the evolving landscape of sports broadcasting in India. Exploring  the innovative initiatives at Star Labs, including AI-driven features and robotics, and the challenges faced in implementing these technologies. The conversation highlights the growing sports ecosystem in India, the importance of collaboration, and the future of sports technology.

Takeaways

- Jiostar is a major player in the sports tech market in India.

- Star Labs focuses on innovation in sports broadcasting.

- AI and robotics are transforming sports coverage.

- Collaboration with startups is key to innovation.

- The sports ecosystem in India is rapidly evolving.

- Innovation often starts at the tier 2 and tier 3 levels.

- Jiostar covers over 300 days of live sports annually.

- The organization has a strong culture of risk-taking and innovation.

- AI translation enhances viewer engagement.

- The future of sports technology is promising with ongoing developments.

🎙 In lead up to the Global Sports Tech Ecosystem Report 2025, the Sports Tech Allstars Podcast presents Ricardo Mazzucca, Partner at Arena Hub.

In this episode, we discuss the evolution of the Brazilian sports innovation ecosystem. We explore Ricardo's background, the mission of Arena Hub, the startup landscape in Brazil, and the challenges and opportunities within the sports industry. The conversation highlights the importance of innovation, connection, and education in accelerating the future of sports, as well as the role of startups in transforming the industry.

Takeaways

- Ricardo Mazzucca has extensive experience in sports marketing and innovation.

- Arena Hub aims to accelerate innovation in the sports industry.

- The Brazilian sports ecosystem is evolving but still has room for growth.

- Startups in Brazil are diverse, ranging from early-stage to mature companies.

- Innovation is crucial for sports entities to remain competitive.

- The partnership with the Brazilian Olympic Committee is a significant milestone for Arena Hub.

- Fan engagement is a key focus for Brazilian sports startups.

- The sports industry in Brazil is ripe for investment and innovation.

- Many sports entities in Brazil are still adapting to the concept of innovation.

- Arena Hub connects startups with sports entities to foster collaboration.

🎙 In lead up to the Global Sports Tech Ecosystem Report 2025, the Sports Tech Allstars Podcast presents Claudine Breton, Director General at Thinksport.

Claudine discusses her background and the revitalization of ThinsSport's mission. She highlights the importance of innovation in the sports ecosystem, the role of startups, and the upcoming event known as 'The Spot'. Claudine shares insights on international collaboration, barriers to innovation within sports organizations, and quick wins for embracing a culture of innovation. The conversation emphasizes the need for a collaborative approach to drive progress in the sports industry.

Takeaways

- ThinkSport is focusing on innovation and collaboration.

- The organization aims to connect various stakeholders in the sports ecosystem.

- International partnerships are crucial for sports innovation.

- Startups play a vital role in addressing sports challenges.

- The Spot event will showcase innovative solutions in sports.

- Barriers to innovation include financial constraints and resistance to change.

- Sustainability and diversity are key focus areas for sports organizations.

- ThinkSport plans to expand its international relationships and initiatives.

🎙 In lead up to the Global Sports Tech Ecosystem Report 2025, the Sports Tech Allstars Podcast presents Lloyd Danzig, managing partner at Sharp Alpha.

In this episode we discuss the evolving landscape of sports technology and investment. We explore the concept of competitive entertainment, the rise of innovative ventures like Pool House, and the importance of engaging fan experiences. Lloyd shares insights on the qualities of successful founders and the future trends in sports tech, emphasizing the shift towards active participation and socialization in sports.

Takeaways

- Competitive entertainment is about engaging consumers.

- Investments in sports tech are expanding beyond traditional boundaries.

- Pool House exemplifies the trend of experiential entertainment.

- The younger generation seeks socialization beyond alcohol consumption.

- Innovative tech can transform traditional games like pool.

- Successful founders need to inspire and engage their teams.

- Transparency in communication is crucial for founders.

- The sports tech landscape is ripe for new investments.

- Fan engagement is shifting from passive to active participation.

- Future trends will be driven by consumer behavior and technology.

🎙 On this episode of the Sports Tech Allstars podcast, we’re shining shining light on Women’s Sports again with Ellen Hyslop, Co-Founder of The GIST.

In this episode we discuss the evolving landscape of women's sports and media, the importance of catering to female sports fans, the unique storytelling approach needed to engage this audience, and the surge in investment in women's sports. Ellen shares insights on the challenges faced in building a sports media brand, the role of technology in enhancing women's sports visibility, and the future plans for The GIST, including a focus on community building and partnerships with major organizations.

Takeaways

- The GIST is the first fan-first sports media company for underserved sports fans.

- Women care about both men's and women's sports, often more than men do.

- Storytelling is crucial for engaging female sports fans.

- Digital media has democratized women's sports, allowing athletes to share their stories directly.

- Investment in women's sports is surging due to increased visibility and engagement.

- The quality of media coverage for women's sports has improved significantly with better technology.

- Data analytics can unlock new opportunities in women's sports, especially in fantasy and betting.

- The next generation of female athletes is more likely to pursue sports as a career.

- Community building is essential for the future of sports media.

- Women entering the sports industry should view their unique perspectives as assets. 

🎙 On this episode of the Sports Tech Allstars podcast, we’re shining shining light on Women’s Sports with Arianna Criscione, Co-Founder and CEO at Valeur Sport.

We discuss the evolving landscape of women's sports, focusing on investment opportunities, the importance of salary transparency, and the role of technology in enhancing visibility and engagement. Arianna shares her journey from being a professional athlete to an entrepreneur, emphasizing the need for systemic changes to close the gender pay gap and improve the overall ecosystem for women in sports. The conversation highlights the growing appetite for women's sports and the innovative approaches being taken to foster growth and inclusivity in the industry.

Takeaways

- Arianna emphasizes the need for salary transparency in sports.

- Valeur aims to close the gender pay gap in sports.

- Women's sports is becoming a billion-dollar industry.

- Visibility of women's sports is improving but still needs work.

- Technology can play a crucial role in enhancing women's sports.

- Investment in women's sports is increasing, but strategies need to improve.

- Arianna's journey showcases the importance of networking and seizing opportunities.

- Creating a safe space for discussions about gender issues is vital.

- The ecosystem for women's sports needs to be built strategically.

- Women's sports are innovating and creating unique engagement opportunities.

🎙Closing out the Indian series for the Indian Sports Biz & Tech Report, we present: Unmish Parthasarathi, Founder & Executive Director at Picture Board Partners (Singapore). 

In this episode of the Sports Tech All Stars Podcast, they discuss the evolution of media rights, the unique characteristics of the Indian sports market, emerging opportunities beyond cricket, and the impact of technology and innovation on sports participation. The conversation also touches on the future of sports in India leading up to the 2036 Olympics, highlighting the potential for growth and development in various sports sectors.

Takeaways

- Unmish Parthasarathi has extensive experience in the sports industry, working at the intersection of content, technology, and finance.

- The media rights landscape has changed significantly, with increased demand and supply fragmentation.

- India's sports culture is dominated by cricket, but there are emerging opportunities in other sports.

- The IPL has had a profound impact on Indian sports, both positively and negatively.

- Technology and innovation are crucial for the future of sports participation in India.

- The audience in India is young, connected, and multilingual, presenting unique opportunities.

- The economics of sports media are shifting towards streaming and digital platforms.

- Fandom in sports is characterized by loyalty and engagement, which differs from other entertainment genres.

- The upcoming 2036 Olympics in India presents a significant opportunity for growth in sports.

- There is a growing momentum in the Indian sports market, driven by various factors including technology and youth engagement.

🎙Closing out the Indian series  in build up to the Indian Sports Biz & Tech Report, we present: Salone Sehgal, Founding General Partner, Lumikai

In this episode of the SportsTech All-Stars podcast, Salone Sehgal, founding general partner of Lumikai, discusses her journey in the Indian sports ecosystem, focusing on the intersection of media, gaming, and technology. She shares insights on the evolution of the Indian gaming market, investment strategies, and the future of esports in India. Salone emphasizes the importance of building relationships with founders and highlights the significant growth potential in the Indian gaming and entertainment sectors.

Takeaways

- Salone Sehgal is the founding general partner at Lumikai, India's first media gaming and tech stage fund.

- Lumikai focuses on investing in interactive media, gaming, and technology, managing over $75 million.

- The Indian gaming market has seen a Cambrian explosion due to mobile accessibility and affordable data.

- Esports has become an official sport in India, indicating its growing importance in the sports ecosystem.

- Salone's investment strategy includes building relationships with founders before they seek funding.

- The average Indian consumes a significant amount of data, driving demand for interactive content.

- Gaming is now a major revenue generator, surpassing traditional media like Bollywood.

- Lumikai's approach includes a five-pillar framework to support portfolio companies.

- The future of esports in India looks promising, with increasing youth engagement and cultural relevance.

- Salone believes the next decade will see significant changes in the Indian sports and gaming landscape.

🎙Continuing focus on the Indian ecosystem in build up to the Indian Sports Biz & Tech Report, we present: Per Nohlert, CEO of 1080 Motion

In this conversation, Per discusses his journey and vision for the company, focusing on the innovative technology behind their products and the potential of the Indian sports market. He shares insights from his recent trip to India, highlighting the growing interest in sports technology and the willingness to invest in high-quality training equipment. Per also addresses challenges in the market, including price sensitivity and the need for education around their products. Looking ahead, he emphasizes the company's growth strategy and commitment to understanding customer needs in various regions.

Takeaways:

- Per Nohlert emphasizes the importance of understanding the Indian market.

- 1080 Motion's technology disrupts traditional resistance training methods.

- The company is focused on expanding into new sports and markets.

- Per's recent trip to India revealed a strong interest in sports tech.

- There is a growing willingness to invest in high-quality training equipment.

- Price sensitivity in India was less of a concern than expected.

- 1080 Motion aims to increase local production to reduce costs.

- The company is committed to education and customer engagement.

- Per highlights the importance of face-to-face interactions with customers.

- The future looks promising for 1080 Motion in India and beyond.

🎙Contining focus on the Indian ecosystem in build up to the Indian Sports Biz & Tech Report, we present: Eric Hollingsworth and Arnab Das from Vijayi Bharat Sports Academy.

In this episode of the SportsTech All-Stars Podcast, the discussion revolves around the evolving Indian sports ecosystem, focusing on the Vijay Bharat Sports Academy and its role in developing young athletes. Eric Hollingsworth and Arnab Das share insights on their experiences, the importance of technology in sports, and the cultural challenges faced in India. They emphasize the need for critical thinking, data analysis, and innovative approaches to enhance athlete performance and identify medal-winning opportunities in various sports. The conversation also touches on future plans for the academy and the significance of integrating local practices with global standards.

Takeaways

- The Indian sports ecosystem is rapidly evolving with significant opportunities.

- Vijay Bharat Sports Academy aims to develop athletes for international competitions.

- Technology and data analysis are crucial for enhancing athlete performance.

- Cultural challenges exist in integrating global sports practices in India.

- Identifying key sports for medal opportunities is essential for success.

- A multidisciplinary approach in coaching can lead to better athlete development.

- Critical thinking should be taught to young coaches and athletes.

- Integrative medicine and yoga are being utilized for athlete recovery and performance.

- Future plans include expanding the academy's facilities and sports offerings.

- The importance of local knowledge in implementing global sports strategies.

🎙Welcome back to another episode of the Sports Tech Allstars Podcast! With continued focus on the Indian ecosystem in build up to the Indian Sports Biz & Tech Report, we present: Shikha Tandon, Chief Resilience and Partnerships Officer at svexa.

In this episode, we discuss Shikha's journey from being an elite athlete to working in the sports tech industry, the role of technology in enhancing athletic performance, and the current state of the Indian sports tech ecosystem. Shikha shares insights on the challenges faced in adopting technology in sports, the importance of youth development in preparation for the 2036 Olympics, and her personal aspirations to contribute to India's sports landscape.

Takeaways

- Shikha Tandon is a former Olympian and an Arjuna Awardee.

- Svexa focuses on human performance through technology and analytics.

- The transition from athlete to tech innovator can be smooth with the right academic background.

- Technology is revolutionizing athletic performance and training methods.

- The Indian sports tech market is at a unique inflection point, especially with the 2036 Olympics bid.

- Adoption of technology in sports faces challenges such as resistance from coaches and lack of infrastructure.

- Youth development is crucial for India's future success in sports.

- Collaboration among stakeholders is essential for driving innovation in sports tech.

- Sports can play a significant role in promoting health and wellness in society.

- Personal experiences and insights from athletes can greatly enhance the sports tech ecosystem.

🎙Welcome back to the Sports Tech Allstars Podcast this 2025! Hope you’ve all had a great start to the year. 

Starting this year with focus on the Indian ecosystem in build up to the Indian Sports Biz & Tech Report. To kick off the series, we present: Nandan Kamath, Co-Founder at Sports and Society Accelerator.

In this episode we discuss the rapid growth of the Indian Sports Tech market, the evolving cultural perceptions of sports careers, and the importance of physical activity in the population. Nandan shares insights from his report on the state of physical activity in India, highlighting significant gaps and opportunities for improvement. The conversation also delves into the role of technology in bridging gaps in sports, the challenges faced by startups in the sports tech space, and the future outlook for Indian sports, especially in light of potential Olympic hosting. Nandan reflects on his personal journey in sports and the importance of fostering a sports culture in India.

Takeaways

- Indian SportsTech is rapidly growing and diversifying.

- Cultural shifts are changing perceptions of sports careers.

- Physical activity levels in India are alarmingly low.

- Sports can drive socio-economic change in the population.

- Technology has the potential to bridge gaps in sports.

- Awareness of health and fitness is increasing among youth.

- Government and private sectors must collaborate for sports development.

- Startups face challenges in finding product-market fit in sports tech.

- Perceived value of sports experiences influences consumer behavior.

- The future of Indian sports looks promising with upcoming events. 

🎙Continuing the Global Sports Tech VC Report series, the SportsTech Allstars presents: Mohit Pareek, Principal at  DrakeStar Partners

In this episode, we discuss Mohit's journey in the advisory space, recent transactions in sports tech, and the current state of the market as it transitions into 2024. The conversation highlights the importance of profitability for startups, the dynamics of middle market transactions, and the exciting areas of innovation within sports tech, including fan engagement and AI. Mohit shares insights on the future of DrakeStar and the sports tech industry as a whole.

Takeaways

• 2024 is seen as a transition year for the sports tech industry.

• M&A activity in sports tech is at an all-time high.

• Profitability is crucial for startups seeking acquisition.

• Fan engagement is a key area of innovation in sports tech.

• Middle market transactions are increasingly important in the sports sector.

• The sports tech industry is experiencing a surge in investment and interest.

• AI and analytics are transforming the sports media landscape.

• DrakeStar is committed to supporting innovative sports tech companies.

🎙 A special episode to shout out Sport Marke Medien on 2nd and 3rd December which is a part of the leading international sporting goods trade fair ISPO Munich. The Sports Tech Allstars presents: Hendrik Ungelenk, Teamlead for the conferences of the ESB Marketing Networking

In this conversation, Rohn and Hendrik Ungelenk discuss the upcoming Sportmarker Medien event, which aims to bring together leaders in media and brand commercialization within sports. They explore the objectives of the event, the structure of the ESP Marketing Network, and the focus on tech innovation and investment trends in the sports industry. Hendrik shares insights on the event's speakers, successful use cases from the network, and future plans for growth and relevance in the sports marketing landscape.

🎙Continuing the Global Sports Tech VC Report series, the SportsTech Allstars presents: Lauren Pedersen, CEO at SportAI.

In this conversation, Lauren Pedersen, CEO of Sport AI, discusses the innovative use of AI and computer vision in sports technique analysis, particularly in racket sports. She shares insights on the challenges of traditional coaching methods, the recent funding successes of Sport AI, and the company's vision for expanding into other sports. The discussion also touches on the importance of democratising access to sports coaching, the role of technology in enhancing fan engagement, and the future of AI in sports commentary.

Takeaways

- Sport AI uses AI for technique analysis in sports.

- AI can provide objective feedback for athletes.

- Recent funding includes notable investors like Magnus Carlsen.

- Partnerships with platforms like Matchi enhance user experience.

- AI can personalise equipment recommendations for players.

- Democratising access to coaching is a key goal.

- AI commentary can revolutionise fan engagement in sports.

🎙In lead up to the SportsTech VC Report out early November, we’re kicking off the most awaited investments series. On the first episode, the Sports Tech Allstars presents: Thomas Rudy, Chief Investment Officer at LEAD VC.

In this episode, Rohn speaks with Thomas Rudy about the evolution of LEAD VC's investment strategies in the sports tech ecosystem. They discuss the various funds under LEAD VC, including their focus on health tech and sports innovation, as well as the importance of partnerships with sports organisations. Thomas highlights successful investments like OxyWear and Mustard, and shares insights on current trends in the market, including the merging of sports and health, the future of virtual reality, and the growing significance of women's sports. The conversation concludes with Thomas sharing his excitement for LEAD VC's future growth and upcoming initiatives.

Takeaways

-LEAD VC has evolved from an accelerator to a holistic venture corporation.

-The focus is on investments from pre-seed to Series A and beyond.

-LEAD VC operates multiple funds, including the Lake Nona Fund and the Advantage Fund

-The merging of sports and health is a key trend in the industry.

-Virtual reality faces challenges, while augmented reality is gaining traction.

-Youth sports and women's sports are emerging markets for investment.

🎙For the last episode on sustainability in sports, the SportsTech Allstars Podcast presents: Pierluigi Zacheo, Founder at MyStadium Ltd. 

MyStadium is a Sustainability Consultancy that offers strategic advice for the Sports/Events industry. In this conversation, Rohn and Pierluigii Zacheo discuss the critical role of sustainability in sports, emphasizing the importance of technology and innovation. They explore the definition of sustainability, the various stakeholders involved, and share case studies from Formula E and the NBA. The discussion highlights the complexities of integrating sustainability into operations and the potential of technology, particularly generative AI, to optimize processes and reduce carbon footprints. The conversation concludes with a look at future projects and the importance of aligning with ISO standards for credibility in sustainability efforts.

Takeaways

-Sustainability in sports means creating a circular economy.

-Stakeholders include not just shareholders but also communities and the environment.

-Mapping stakeholders is crucial for understanding their needs.

-Integrating sustainability into operations requires significant effort.

-Sustainability should be part of the organizational culture.

-Data collection is essential for measuring sustainability efforts.

-Generative AI can optimize logistics and reduce emissions.

-ISO standards provide a framework for sustainable event management.

🎙Continuing the focus on sustainability in sports, the SportsTech Allstars Podcast presents: Christian Theil, CEO at turfcoach. 

In this conversation, Rohn and Christian talk about the intersection of technology, sustainability, and sports. They discuss how Turf Coach digitizes pitch conditions to help groundskeepers manage turf more effectively, the importance of pitch quality on game performance, and the company's expansion into other sports. Christian shares insights on sustainability in turf management, future trends, and the innovations Turf Coach is pursuing to enhance their product offerings.

Takeaways

• Turf Coach digitises pitch conditions for better management.

• Christian's background includes sustainable land use at the UN.

• Data analytics helps groundskeepers make informed decisions.

• Pitch conditions significantly impact game performance.

• Turf Coach works with top-tier clubs across Europe.

• The company is exploring opportunities in cricket and rugby.

• Sustainability is a key focus for Turf Coach's operations.

• Future trends include innovations in pitch maintenance technology.

🎙Focusing on sustainability in sports for the next few weeks, this SportsTech Allstars Podcast presents: Ioannis Konstantopoulos, Sustainability Advisor at InNews.

This conversation delves into the emerging theme of sustainability in sports, exploring its significance, regulatory landscape, and the role of technology and innovation in driving sustainable practices within sports organisations. Ioannis shares insights on how sports entities are adapting to new regulations, the importance of measuring environmental impacts, and the collaborative efforts between sports organisations and technology providers to enhance sustainability initiatives.

Takeaways

• Sustainability in sports has gained momentum in recent years.

• Regulations are now mandatory for sports organisations in Europe.

• Football is at the forefront of sustainability efforts.

• Organisations are moving from voluntary to mandatory sustainability practices.

• Technology plays a crucial role in measuring and addressing sustainability.

• Consulting firms help organisations develop and implement sustainability strategies.

• Real-time data is essential for effective sustainability management.

• Innovative solutions are being developed to reduce environmental impacts.

• Collaboration between sports organisations and startups is increasing.

• The future of sports sustainability lies in supply chain innovation and digital platforms.

🎙 Last on the Esports World Cup series from the New Global Sports Conference, the Sports Tech Allstars Podcast presents: Andrew Chen, General Partner of Andreessen Horowitz.

Andrew Chen is a General Partner for A16Z GAMES, focused on the intersection of tech and gaming — this includes AI, studios, infrastructure, and consumer apps.

We talk about gaming, fantasy sports and esports in depth. Followed by the things that eSports and gaming could learn from sports to enhance itself, and how storytelling is key in all of it. What are the stories? How do you create that conflict? How do you create these anchor events to bring that together?

🎙 Next up on the Esports World Cup series from the New Global Sports Conference, The Sports Tech Allstars Podcast presents: MJ Acosta- Ruiz, Sportscaster & TV Host at ESPN

MJ Acosta-Ruiz is a television host and sportscaster, currently featured as the anchor of ESPN's Sportscenter and as a sideline reporter for ESPN Deportes' Monday Night Football. We have a lovely chat about the takeaways from the Esports World Cup and the New Global Sports Conference.

The Emmy Award winning journalist became the first  woman of color to host a show at NFL Media. Fully bilingual in English and Spanish, you can find her working internationally to reach the diverse and growing landscape outside of the U.S. 

With nearly 15 years in the TV & Entertainment industry, she continues her work as an advocate for representation and equality. MJ works closely with women’s empowerment groups such as A Seat at the Table and is dedicated to amplifying the voices of marginalized communities. 

🎙 Continuing the esports World Cup series, The Sports Tech Allstars Podcast presents Mike Milanov, Chairman - Advisory Board, Gaming & Esports at Qiddiya.

🎙 Starting the esports World Cup series, The Sports Tech Allstars Podcast presents none other than the CEO himself, Ralf Reichert. 

Ralf grew up as a native gamer with a passion for competition in the physical world as much as the digital. In the late 90s, he founded SK Gaming with his brothers, Tim and Benjamin, as one of the first esports clubs, and competed at the highest level - which subsequently made him fall in love with the industry. Excited to build this industry, Ralf and his team co-founded ESL, and embarked on the quest to build the largest stages for the new sport that turn athletes into stars worldwide. What was intended to be a quick win evolved into a lifelong journey. ESL has since become the largest esports brand, and company culminating in a billion-dollar transaction in 2022 to form ESL Faceit Group - EFG. Ralf has served as Chairman at EFG, on the mission to create worlds beyond gameplay, where esports and gaming collide. In October 2023, Ralf took on the role of CEO at the Esports World Cup Foundation with a mandate to elevate esports to one of the world's premier sports, while expanding the Foundation as a driving force in its development.

🎙 For the last week of broadcasting tech on the SportsTech Allstars we have Rajat Baweja: Lead, Content Partnerships & Non Cricket Monetisation at Disney Star

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the author and do not reflect those of Star Sports. Any opinions expressed should not be interpreted as an endorsement by the company.

Summary

The conversation revolves around sports broadcasting and how broadcasters monetize  the value of sports rights in India. Rajat Baweja, from Star Sports, discusses the strategies broadcasters use to drive their P&Ls to a positive outcome every year. He further explains that the Subscription revenue and the Advertising revenue are the primary ways broadcasters maximize their revenues in India. They also focus on building heroes and engaging with fans to generate value. Rajat mentions that the merger between Disney and Reliance will likely make the merged entity the most dominant player in the Indian sports broadcast ecosystem. He also discusses the monetization strategies for different sports, such as Cricket and Kabaddi. As one of his specializations, Rajat discusses how Star Sports monetizes sports broadcasting rights through advertising and activations. He explains the importance of keeping sponsors satisfied with their investments by offering them unique engagement opportunities with fans. Rajat shares examples of innovative activations, such as using AI to dub Steve Smith's voice in Hindi and incorporating AR technology into broadcasts. He also discusses the process of keeping a look out for and implementing new activations in sports, highlighting the need for constant market research and higher collaboration within the team. In conclusion, Rajat emphasises the importance of delivering great value to advertising partners and enhancing the overall fan experience for sports lovers. 

Takeaways

• Subscription revenue and Advertising revenue are the primary ways sports broadcasters monetize in India

• Building heroes and engaging with fans are one of the most important strategies for generating value in sports broadcasting

• The merger between Disney and Reliance will likely make the merged entity the most dominant player in the Indian broadcast ecosystem

• Different sports have different monetization strategies, such as sponsorships and advertising, and brand solutions

• The value of sports broadcasting rights in India is influenced by market demand and competition

• Star Sports monetizes sports broadcasting rights through advertising and activations

• Keeping sponsors satisfied of their investment involves offering unique engagement opportunities which helps take the brand closer to fan

• Innovative tech based activations include using AI to dub voices and incorporating AR technology into broadcasts.

• Finding and implementing new activations requires constant market research and collaboration within the team.

• Delivering high value to commercial partners is crucial for success in sports broadcasting

🎙 This week on the SportsTech Allstars we have Francis Casado, Head of International Business Development at 3D Digital Venue.

Francis and Rohn discuss the evolution of digital twins and virtual environments in the sports and entertainment industry. Francisco shares how 3D Digital Venue helps venues modernize and simplify venue mapping, enhance online ticket purchase flows, and improve event discovery for fans. They also discuss the revenue opportunities that digital twins can unlock, such as creating virtual experiences and engaging global audiences. Francisco highlights the importance of mobile technology and the shift towards digital consumption in the industry. He also mentions the company's plans for the future, including implementing AI and expanding their reach to more venues.

Summary

• 3D Digital Venue helps venues modernize and simplify venue mapping, enhancing the online ticket purchase flow and improving event discovery for fans.

• Digital twins and virtual environments have become essential tools for venues to communicate and promote their spaces to fans and customers.

• There are revenue opportunities in creating virtual experiences and engaging global audiences through digital twins.

• The market for digital twins and virtual environments has evolved, with more sports entities and venues recognizing their value and adopting these technologies.

• The use of mobile technology and digital solutions in stadiums and venues is becoming increasingly important for enhancing the fan experience.

🎙 This week on the SportsTech Allstars we have Jake Schuster, founder and CEO  of Gemini Sports Analytics.

Jake discusses the evolution of their product and the challenges of selling to sports teams. He highlights the importance of simplifying the user experience and focusing on the needs of decision-makers, such as general managers. Jake also emphasizes the value of early clients and the need to make it easy for investors to connect you with others. He shares his excitement about building a mobile experience for general managers and the potential of componentized models and metrics. Jake also discusses market trends, including the frustration with analytics departments and the untapped potential of tracking data and data visualization.

Takeaways

• Simplify the user experience and focus on the needs of decision-makers.

• Early clients are valuable and should be treated as investors.

• Make it easy for investors to connect you with others.

• Build a mobile experience for general managers.

• Focus on componentized models and metrics.

• Address the frustration with analytics departments and untapped potential of tracking data and data visualization.