While we're mostly looking back at '16, SBJ/SBD examines a few of the possible sports business stories that could play out in '17. Today, we present Part 2.
MONSTER GOES RACING: Monster Energy will take over as title sponsor for NASCAR’s premier series and has a short runway to get its plans in place. Will the activation strategy energize NASCAR and help the sport reach new fans?
F1’S NEXT TURN: Liberty Media will look to wrap up its $4.4B purchase of F1. What will the acquisition mean for the sport both stateside and abroad? A direct-to-consumer streaming service appears in the works as part of that plan to grow interest in the league.
U.S. SOCCER FEELS THE PRESSURE: The U.S. Soccer Federation starts a new year in a legal fight with members of the USWNT who are demanding to be paid the same as the men’s team. Meanwhile, the federation fired men’s coach Jurgen Klinsmann and brought back Bruce Arena as coach as the team tries to qualify for the ‘18 FIFA World Cup. All this comes as the USSF contemplates whether to lead a U.S. bid to host the ‘26 World Cup.
NEXT MOVES ON MLS: MLS Commissioner Don Garber’s expansion decisions have been very strategic, and to date, very successful. In ‘17, the league welcomes Atlanta United FC and Minnesota United, and will begin to firm up its next wave of expansion, potentially bringing the league to 28 clubs in ‘20.
