SportsTech Roundup: Crypto Partnerships, AI Innovations, and Global Ventures
From blockchain collaborations to cutting-edge AI implementations, this week's SportsTech news showcases a world of innovation and expansion.
This week's roundup is a thrilling journey through the latest advancements and partnerships shaping the future of sports. From cryptocurrency alliances in football to AI-powered wind visualisation in sailing (this one was my favourite for the week), we're seeing an exciting convergence of technology and athletics across the globe. Let's dive into the play-by-play of this action-packed week
Image source: Bitpanda
The cryptocurrency ecosystem Floki announced a partnership with Nottingham Forest Football Club
Austrian investment platform Bitpanda and AC Milan enter into a long-term partnership, making the firm the official crypto partner
Dubai-based Baseball United announced the cryptocurrency BONK DAO, as the official presenting partner for the upcoming season
Capgemini to unveil new technology, WindSight IQ™, at the 37th America’s Cup Media to better visualise the wind live on screen
The AFL is set to introduce 'Score Assist' smart ball technology into the 2024 NAB AFLW season
Yonex announced the launch of its new R&D facility, the Yonex Performance Innovation Center in Nagaoka City
FC Bayern Basketball installed a full-LED video sports floor for the upcoming season in their home arena BMW Park
The Oklahoma State football players to wear QR codes on their football helmets to boost NIL funding
Live drone tracer tech makes a return for FedExCup Playoffs and Presidents Cup
Image source: Esports Insider
Women-focused gaming and esports community platform the*gamehers received an undisclosed amount from investment firm Dunhill Ventures.
SportAI, a Norwegian B2B sports technology company, raised $1.8 million in seed funding, led by Norway-based Skyfall Ventures
ALLCITY Network, the operator of multi-platform local sports networks, raised its Series B funding, led by public broadcast company TEGNA
BeyondMath is introducing a new feature, “digital wind tunnel”, that uses physics-based AI simulations to make F1 cars more aerodynamic
Brazilian operator, QG Bet, has gone live on iGaming platform provider Sportingtech
Reuben Brothers, known for bets on British real estate and football, invest in digital IP-based media studio EDGLRD
Blink Tech announced the launch of its XBotGo Chameleon, a new AI-powered sports tracking phone mount
The Football Association of Zambia to address concerns over poor broadcasting production of Super League games on SuperSport TV
NCAA approves the use of tablets on the sidelines during live college games for replays
Rarespawn Ventures and Spectatr sign MOU to develop new fantasy gaming, sports, and esports platform to bolster fan engagement
Aptos partners with Web3 streaming platform myco to bring its platform’s content, including live sports, to Aptos L1
Fanton Fantasy Football announced the completion of their seed investment of $1 million from Animoca Brands, Delphi Ventures, and Kenetic Capital
Image source: INTO X account
INTO announced its partnership with Atleta Network for sports blockchain innovation
Saudi Arabia hosted its ‘The Future of Fandom’ global sports conference in Riyadh from August 24 to 25, 2024
leAD Sports & Health Tech Partners rebranded as LEAD and announced its new expanded company structure
Stratton Studios announced its collaboration with the PGA TOUR and Chain Games to launch a Web3 interactive golf game “PGA TOUR RISE”
Clark County School District (CCSD) deploys new weapon detection systems to replace metal detectors at football games to speed up fan entry
NFL Star Kayvon Thibodeaux becomes a partner with The Collectiv, a $20M VC Fund focused on early-stage sports tech companies and emerging leagues
Image source: Coin Geek
Combat IQ, a data analytics platform using AI for combat sports, is now an official data partner of the UFC
JULU Smart Tech Company unveiled innovative smart adjustable dumbbells on Kickstarter, which feature a smart instant weight adjustment system
The Collectiv, a community-powered VC firm targeting sports tech startups, teams and leagues, closed its debut fund
The DFL uses AI to scale content creation across the competition’s app, website and social media channels
SeventySix Capital, an early-stage VC company has hired former NBA executive Andre Mazire
Circuit de Spa Francorchamps partners with the Dreamwall company to bring virtual elements, using AR to the races
Image source: Bitcoin.com News
Gate IO has partnered with Serie A club Inter Milan to become the official sleeve sponsor for the 24/25 season
Absolute Legends Sports raised Rs 39 crore in an investment round led by Dubai-based real estate company Brickwork Development
Pro baseball team The Milwaukee Brewers are bringing their smart phone-based parking system back to American Family Field
As we wrap up another exhilarating week in sportstech, it's clear that the industry is pushing boundaries like never before. From crypto partnerships in European football to AI-powered solutions in Formula 1, the fusion of cutting-edge technology and sports continues to redefine fan experiences and athletic performance. With new funding rounds, global expansions, and innovative product launches, the sportstech ecosystem is thriving on a truly international scale.
As we look ahead, one thing is certain: the pace of innovation shows no signs of slowing down. Whether you're a fan, athlete, investor, or industry professional, staying informed about these developments is crucial. Help us grow this community of forward-thinkers by sharing this newsletter with your network. Together, we can stay ahead of the game and witness the exciting future of sports unfold.
Until next time, keep your eye on the ball and your mind on the tech!