Journalist specialising in the global business of sport. Wolves FC season ticket holder. Music is my radar.
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Articles by Rob Ridley
Cricket Scotland identifies venues for T20 World Cup, permanent home
Cricket Scotland has proposed Stirling County Cricket Club’s New Williamfield as a potential permanent long-term home, with Titwood, home of Clydesdale Cricket Club, being lined up as its venue for the co-hosting of the 2030 Men’s T20 World Cup. The announcements follow a recent board meeting of the Cricket Scotland Council. The Cricket Scotland Executive has been approved to move forward with investigating New Williamfield.
Edgbaston, White Stadium projects reach topping out stage
Warwickshire County Cricket Club and Boston Legacy FC have marked significant milestones in their respective redevelopments of Edgbaston Stadium and White Stadium with topping out ceremonies held for each. In March, Sisk was appointed as main contractor to deliver the next phase of the redevelopment of Edgbaston in Birmingham.
Rzeszów delivers new athletics stadium for Poland
A new athletics-focused stadium has opened its doors in the Polish city of Rzeszów. Podkarpackie Centrum Lekkiej Atletyki (PCLA) Resovia has been built on the site of the Stadion Resovia and provides a fully covered seating capacity of 7,947. While athletics will be its primary purpose, it has been developed to meet the licensing criteria for top-tier Ekstraklasa football and UEFA club competitions.
Laya Arena set to welcome Bohemians
Bohemian FC has said it hopes to provide an “unrivalled” League of Ireland matchday experience after reaching a deal to play some of its men’s Premier Division games at Laya Arena. The agreement with the Royal Dublin Society (RDS), which owns the stadium, comes with Bohemians’ Dalymount Park set to undergo significant redevelopment meaning it needed to secure an alternative venue to play its games.
San Diego approves $4.2bn Midway Rising venture
The $4.2bn (€3.75bn)-plus Midway Rising mixed-use development project, which will include a new 16,000-seat arena, has taken a significant step forward through unanimous approval by San Diego City Council. The Council’s approval authorises a comprehensive framework of real estate agreements that will guide the redevelopment of the underutilised 48.5-acre site and establish long-term oversight to ensure project obligations and community benefits are delivered.
Torino FC makes move for Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino
Torino FC has rubber-stamped its interest in pursuing redevelopment and operating rights to the Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino in a move that the City of Turin hopes could create a ‘sports city’-style complex. After the Serie A club initially submitted an expression of interest in April, the City has now declared that it has been presented with a feasibility proposal for alternative design options.
MCC links up with Gullivers for new Lord’s offering
Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) is targeting fans outside of London as part of a deal with Gullivers Sports Travel that makes the tour operator the first official short breaks partner of Lord’s. The multi-year partnership will provide spectators with the chance to purchase ticket and accommodation packages in London for all international, T20 Blast and The Hundred match days at Lord’s.
PSV strengthens Signify alliance amid stadium project
Lighting company Signify has stepped up its association with PSV by agreeing a deal to become the official lighting innovation partner of the Dutch Eredivisie club. The contract will run until at least 2032, at which point PSV is hoping to be settled into a redeveloped Philips Stadion. Signify will contribute to the further development of the stadium focusing on the areas of performance, well-being, and experience.
Construction to start as contract awarded for Blue Water Shipping Stadium
Work on Blue Water Shipping Stadium, a new national football stadium for Guyana, is set to commence in earnest after local construction and engineering firm B&J Civil Works secured a contract for phase one of the project. The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has awarded the GYD$118m (£421,000/€505,000/$564,000) contract following a tender process that was publicly advertised on August 27 and drew bids from six contractors.
Xcellence Display Solutions makes European move
Dubai-founded display solutions and components company, Xcellence Display Solutions, is targeting the European stadium and arena market after officially opening up business in the region. Xcellence has appointed seasoned AV executives Tim de Ruiter and Martin Ware to lead its newly created European division, as the company accelerates its expansion across the region. Netherlands-based De Ruiter has been appointed commercial director, with UK-based Ware taking the role of managing director.
Dundee stadium project set for new public consultation
A long-awaited planning verdict on Dundee FC’s proposed new stadium is facing further delays after it emerged that the project will require a fresh public consultation. The Scottish Premiership club submitted Planning Permission in Principle (PPiP) documentation for the stadium back in February 2024. Later that year, Dundee FC released a three-minute flythrough video and new images showcasing the proposed 12,500-seat facility.
A.GAIN seals acquisition of Real Zaragoza
A.GAIN, a capital creation platform operating across technology and sports and entertainment, has broadened its football portfolio by agreeing a takeover deal for Real Zaragoza. Following an initial announcement in July, an agreement has now been formalised making A.GAIN the majority shareholder of the club, which was last season relegated to Primera RFEF, the third tier of Spanish football, for the first time in its history.
OneCourt tech rolls out for NHL fans through Ticketmaster link-up
The National Hockey League (NHL) has teamed up with Ticketmaster to roll out OneCourt technology for blind and low-vision fans at events and venues during the 2026-27 season. Complimentary OneCourt tablets will be provided to fans at all NHL tentpole events in North America. The venture debuted with the Heritage Classic between the Winnipeg Jets and Montreal Canadiens at Princess Auto Stadium in Winnipeg, Manitoba on October 25.
Brabourne Stadium returns as Women’s Premier League venue
Mumbai and Vadodara will continue as host cities of the Women’s Premier League (WPL), with the Cricket Club of India’s Brabourne Stadium stepping in as the venue in the former. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has today (Wednesday) announced the schedule for the fifth edition of the T20 competition, which will be played from January 14 to February 7, 2027.
Plano voters reject funding measure for new Stars arena
Mayor of Plano, John Muns, has said officials are committed to “thoughtful reinvestment and responsible stewardship” of taxpayer dollars after voters moved to reject several taxes that were proposed to help fund a new arena for the Dallas Stars, along with a mixed-use development. While not interpreted as a fatal blow for the project, the City of Plano will now need to rethink how it plans to finance a proposed $700m (£516.2m/€618.5m) contribution.
Portadown stadium rights acquired by former player’s firm
NIFL Premiership club Portadown FC has agreed a stadium naming rights deal with health and wellness company British Supplements. The four-year contract will see the British Supplements name added to Portadown’s Shamrock Park home. The stadium is celebrating its 120th anniversary this year, with Portadown stating retaining its original moniker was an important part of the deal.
Dnipro Arena returns to auction
PrivatBank, Ukraine’s largest bank, has again cut the base price for Dnipro Arena as it attempts to sell the 31,003-capacity stadium. PrivatBank has announced that a new auction will be held on November 9, with the starting price for the stadium, and associated training complex, set at UAH 90,963,900 (£1.49m/€1.78m/$2m). A previous open auction for the sale of these assets was scheduled for October 27 but failed to receive any bids. At that time the base price was set some UAH 20.3m higher.
Ayr United to bring padel to Somerset Park
Somerset Park, home of Scottish Championship club Ayr United, is set to be home to a padel club through a partnership with the Soul Padel organisation. Representing a £750,000 (€894,000/$1m) investment, the facility marks the Manchester-based company’s second Scottish location, following the opening of Soul Padel Braehead in Glasgow back in June. The Somerset Park venue will feature four covered padel courts and a dedicated clubhouse with shower and toilet facilities.
Como 1907 ready to submit new plans for stadium redevelopment
Como 1907 president, Mirwan Suwarso, has said revised plans for the revamp of Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia are ready to be submitted, while he has sought to clarify the “Disneyland” term he used to describe the Serie A club’s broader development vision. Como 1907, along with the Municipality of Como and Populous, presented initial concepts for the redevelopment of the Sinigaglia back in February 2025, with the goal of ensuring the venue remains “a vital part of the community”.
Cambridge United forms partnership to assess new stadium
Cambridge United has identified a site around a mile away from its current home, Cledara Abbey Stadium, for the potential development of a new venue. The EFL League One club has agreed to work in partnership with housebuilder The Hill Group and the Greater Cambridge Development Corporation to explore the feasibility of a new stadium at the Cambridge East/Marshalls site. United said this stage of work will start now and conclude by Easter 2027.
Notre Dame triumphs in Eternal City Tip-Off
Villanova may have had Pope Leo XIV’s backing, but it was Notre Dame that prevailed in a double-header contest that tipped off the 2026-27 college basketball campaign with the first regular season games to be played in Italy. Held yesterday (Sunday) on All Saints’ Day, a major Catholic holiday, the Eternal City Tip-Off took place at Rome’s 11,000-seat Palazzo dello Sport.
Naver takes naming rights to Incheon’s Inspire Arena
Naver Corporation, South Korea’s largest internet conglomerate and primary online search engine platform, will showcase its technology at Inspire Arena after acquiring naming rights to the Incheon venue. Part of the wider Inspire Resort, the arena has been known under its present name since opening in December 2023. It will revert to the moniker ‘Naver Arena at Inspire’, or ‘Naver Arena’, from next month under an initial three-year contract.
Giants link up with Autex Acoustics for stadium switch
Huddersfield Giants has signed up Autex Acoustics as its stadium naming rights partner as the Super League club prepares to move to its new home in Dewsbury. The agreement represents a significant strengthening of an already successful partnership between the club and Autex Acoustics, which has supported the Giants for several years, including as an official shirt sponsor.
Chinese consortium to develop new Stade Olympique d’El Menzah
A consortium consisting of China CAMC Engineering (CAMCE) and China Railway Construction Engineering Group (CRCEG) has secured a contract to deliver a new stadium on the site of the Stade Olympique d’El Menzah in Tunis, Tunisia. Located at the El Menzah National Sports Complex in the Tunisian capital, the existing stadium opened in 1967 for Tunis’ staging of that year’s Mediterranean Games but has been out of action since 2019.
People on the move: CAF, Alpes 2030, LA28 and more
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed Samson Adamu as its general secretary on a permanent basis. Adamu has occupied the role in an acting capacity since March following the resignation of Véron Mosengo-Omba, who had served in the position since March 2021. Adamu brings extensive experience in African football administration, having joined CAF in 2018 as director of competitions before subsequently serving as director of tournaments and events.
IndyCar heading overseas with Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya deal
The IndyCar Series will stage its first race outside its North American heartland since 2013 after sealing a multi-year deal for an event at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in Spain. The inaugural IndyCar Grand Prix of Barcelona was today (Friday) confirmed as the centrepiece of phase two of the 2027 Series schedule, with July 18 lined up for its debut.
Hospitality focus: New Nissan Stadium, Kaseya Center and State Farm Arena
As the new Nissan Stadium nears its opening in 2027, the Tennessee Titans have unveiled plans behind the Infiniti Club, while the Miami Heat has engaged Dorsia as its official hospitality technology partner and fellow NBA franchise the Atlanta Hawks has extended its deal with Levy. A new premium hospitality destination within Nissan Stadium, Infiniti Club is backed by the luxury automotive arm of the Japanese manufacturer.
LOSC set to assume operating rights to Décathlon Arena
LOSC Lille has entered into a memorandum of understanding with Eiffage through which it is set to assume operational control of its home stadium, Décathlon Arena – Stade Pierre-Mauroy. Construction and concessions company Eiffage said it has entered into exclusive negotiations with LOSC with regards the Ligue 1 club acquiring the companies which operate, manage and maintain Décathlon Arena and its associated areas.
United issues latest fan survey for new stadium
Manchester United has launched the next phase of fan engagement for its proposed new 100,000-seat stadium, seeking feedback on priority features as the design develops. The survey has been issued today (Friday) and will close on November 6. All match-going supporters – including season-ticket holders, official members and hospitality purchasers – have been sent an email with a link to participate in the study.
Dortmund introduces ‘Fan Mode’ at Signal Iduna Park
Borussia Dortmund has teamed up with Vodafone to launch a venture aiming to preserve the matchday experience at Signal Iduna Park by rewarding fans that restrict their use of mobile phones during games. Starting with tomorrow’s (Saturday’s) Bundesliga home game against Eintracht Frankfurt, ‘Fan Mode’ will be a new offering available through the BVB App. Vodafone is Dortmund’s main shirt sponsor and one of three top-tier partners of the club alongside Signal Iduna and Puma.
United States to debut FIFA Women’s Club World Cup
The United States has added to its run of hosting major FIFA events by being awarded the rights to the inaugural Women’s Club World Cup in 2028. The launch of such a tournament has long been a goal of FIFA.
Saudi-Chinese JV lands major contract for Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium
A Saudi-Chinese joint venture has secured the contract to deliver what it describes as one of the most significant large-scale curtain wall projects in the world for Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium (PMBS Stadium) in Qiddiya, Saudi Arabia. IKK Fangda is formed by Shihui International Holdings, in which China Fangda Group holds a 51% interest, and Isam Kabbani & Partners, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Saudi Arabia’s IKK Group, in which the latter holds a 49% interest.
Lazio revises plans for Stadio Flaminio
SS Lazio has made concessions, including scaling back capacity, in an effort to receive approvals for its proposed redevelopment of the Stadio Flaminio. The Italian Serie A club, which currently shares the Stadio Olimpico with rival AS Roma, is seeking to make the Flaminio its new home, but faces a challenging process in order to fulfil its ambitions.
Fanatics to set first with Hawks tie-up
Fanatics has agreed a multi-year, omnichannel retail partnership with NBA franchise the Atlanta Hawks through which it will make its first entry into a mixed-use real estate development. Fanatics will open a one-of-a-kind Atlanta sports store at Centennial Yards, bringing an immersive retail experience to the heart of the city’s sports and entertainment district.
Anfield concert opportunities to open up for Liverpool
Liverpool FC has secured greater flexibility in hosting concerts at Anfield following a ruling by Liverpool City Council. The Premier League club’s stadium has become a major concert venue during the summer months, with 21 gigs having been held over the past seven years, including My Chemical Romance, Foo Fighters and Zach Bryan this year. The club has previously attempted on two occasions to have licensing restrictions loosened.
Work begins on Frederick Cricket Park
Ground has been broken on a cricket-centric, multi-sport park that will house a 10,000-capacity stadium for Major League Cricket (MLC) franchise Washington Freedom. Located in the city of Frederick, Maryland, Frederick Cricket Park is being envisioned as a park-like community destination, not a large commercial stadium. The actual stadium component will have 5,000 fixed bleacher seats and 5,000 grass seating areas.
Arena Video makes move for Main Event Lighting
UK live event production company Arena Video has enhanced its lighting division through the acquisition of Main Event Lighting while confirming a number of contract extensions across the international boxing and sports events industry. Arena Video said the takeover marks an “important milestone” in the company’s continued development as a full-service technical production partner to the live events industry.
Women’s centre of excellence vision set out for Millmoor
Rotherham United Women FC is set to launch a public consultation on a proposal to reimagine the former Millmoor stadium as a national centre of excellence for the women’s game.
San Diego Wave targeting new stadium
National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) franchise San Diego Wave has presented a proposal for a mixed-use development featuring a new 12,000 to 16,000-seat stadium, stating it is tired of being “a fourth-class citizen” at current home, Snapdragon Stadium. The Wave moved into Snapdragon Stadium, which is owned by San Diego State University, after the venue opened in September 2022.
Taichung signs off on Taiwan Super Dome project
Taichung City Government has sealed a build-operate-transfer contract with Taiwan Life Insurance for Taiwan Super Dome, which will become the country’s largest indoor baseball stadium. With a total investment of NT$60bn (£1.39bn/€1.64bn/$1.85bn) the venture will represent the largest single sports venue development project in Taiwan, with the stadium planned to accommodate more than 45,000 spectators. The Government has been actively planning a large indoor baseball stadium since 2024.
Banana Ball goes international, Notre Dame Stadium set for 360 concept
Savannah Bananas has revealed a 2027 Banana Ball World Tour schedule that includes its first international games in Canada and Mexico, along with a first-of-its-kind event at Notre Dame Stadium. With the mission statement of reshaping the traditional baseball fan experience, the Bananas have exploded in popularity in recent years, expanding to take in events at major league and college stadia across the US.
Spanish bid lines up record 2035 RWC final at Camp Nou
The Spanish Rugby Federation (RFER) has laid out its venue vision for its ambitious bid for the 2035 Rugby World Cup, with FC Barcelona’s revamped Spotify Camp Nou in line for a final which could set an attendance record of more than 100,000 fans for the showpiece game. The RFER, along with the Japan Rugby Football Union (JRFU) and a South American bid headed by the Argentine Rugby Union (UAR), submitted their applicant questionnaires to World Rugby earlier this month.
Royals share ballpark plans, Populous seals deal
Populous has been confirmed as architect of record for the Kansas City Royals’ new ballpark, with the goal of creating one of the most intimate experiences in Major League Baseball. The approximately 34,000-seat, open-air Royals ballpark will look to bring fans closer to the field while connecting the game to downtown Kansas City and its surrounding community.
PowerChina takes on El Campín project
Chinese construction engineering company PowerChina has agreed a contract to become the new main contractor for the delivery of the new Estadio Nemesio Camacho El Campín in the Colombian capital, Bogotá.
Korea seeking proposals for dome stadium drive
The South Korean Government has called on metropolitan local governments and public institutions to submit proposals to develop what will be two multi-purpose stadiums complete with a roof. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has today (Wednesday) launched a call for proposals to select sites for the construction of stadiums that can cater to major sports and entertainment events. The initiative aims to select one site each for a large-scale and a medium-scale dome stadium.
Mayor backs new Vegas NBA arena proposal
New York-based real estate firm Fisher Brothers has joined the list of contenders eyeing the opportunity of an NBA expansion franchise heading to Las Vegas by setting out a proposal for an arena based at the site of its Area15 immersive entertainment complex. Area15, founded by Winston Fisher and opened in 2020, has been put forward as having over 50 acres deemed perfectly suited for a state-of-the-art NBA arena and mixed-use district with curated retail.
Populous to bring One New Zealand Stadium learnings to Canberra effort
Canberra Airport has stepped up its proposal for a new stadium for Australia’s capital city by appointing Populous to undertake concept design and feasibility work. The appointment marks the next step in assessing the viability of the proposed stadium at Regatta Place in the city centre.
Lions Women to make their bow at Principality Stadium
The British & Irish Lions Women’s team will debut at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium with a game against France, ahead of the inaugural tour to New Zealand in 2027. The Principality Stadium clash, dubbed The Howden Lions Women’s Cup, will provide supporters with their first opportunity to see the team in action on home soil on August 27.
PS&E seeking out investors for Parken, FC København
Parken Sport & Entertainment (PS&E), parent company of Parken stadium and FC København, has confirmed it is exploring the potential sale of the venue and the Danish Superliga football club.
Boone Pickens Stadium gears up for hockey action, Cincinnati Open’s home welcomes basketball
College ice hockey has the potential to set another major attendance mark with Oklahoma State to host Oklahoma at Boone Pickens Stadium next year, while Centre Court at Cincinnati Open Sporting Club was this week repurposed to host college basketball. The Oklahoma State v Oklahoma game will see Boone Pickens Stadium stage ice hockey for the first time on January 30, with the venue having a capacity of 52,168 for college football.
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