The sports marketing industry specializes in promoting athletes, events, and brands within sports. Companies offer services including sponsorship management, talent representation, media rights negotiations, and event marketing. As sports continue to expand, so does the industry's focus on digital engagement and the growing importance of social media in fan interaction. Insights show that successful partnerships elevate brand visibility, paving the way for innovative approaches, particularly in connecting brands with the next generation of sports fans. The use of analytics is on the rise, helping marketers understand fan behaviors and preferences better than ever.


This list showcases 22 sports marketing companies based globally from the United States to India and Germany to Singapore. The agencies range in size from small firms with under 100 employees to large corporations with thousands. Founded between 1960 and 2018, their specializations include talent management, event activation, media rights, and brand partnerships. Notable players, such as IMG and Wasserman, signify expertise in athlete representation and strategic marketing solutions, reflecting a dynamic industry catering to various sports segments across the world.


Continue reading to discover the top sports marketing companies.


Top 22 Sports Marketing Companies


1. Img

  • Website: img.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 50%, United States (USA) 21%, Australia 5%, Other 24%
  • Latest funding: $7.1M, December 2020
  • Founded year: 1960
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: img

IMG, founded in 1960 and based in London, Ohio, is a prominent sports management agency that specializes in managing athletes and fashion celebrities. The company is part of the Endeavor network and operates globally, with a workforce of over 5,000 employees. IMG's services extend beyond athlete representation; they are deeply involved in organizing live events, producing media content, and providing strategic consulting to sports organizations and brands. Their expertise includes media rights management, digital marketing, and global brand partnerships, which are crucial for enhancing fan engagement and maximizing commercial opportunities. IMG also plays a role in the sports betting sector, pioneering the distribution of official data rights to sportsbooks. Their commitment to innovation and sustainability in sports broadcasting further underscores their relevance in the industry.


2. Octagon

  • Website: octagon.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Stamford, Connecticut, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 63%, United Kingdom (UK) 14%, Spain 4%, Other 19%
  • Founded year: 1983
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • LinkedIn: octagon

Octagon is a sports marketing agency based in Stamford, Connecticut, specializing in talent representation and brand development. Founded in 1983, the company has grown to employ over 1,000 professionals across various global locations, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and several countries in Europe and Asia. Octagon provides a wide range of services, including contract negotiation, marketing strategies, and financial management, aimed at maximizing the potential of their clients in the competitive sports and entertainment sectors. The agency represents a broad spectrum of talent, from athletes in major sports like baseball, basketball, and football to coaches and executives. Their expertise extends to career development, celebrity strategy, content production, and wealth management, showcasing their multifaceted approach to client success. Octagon's involvement in high-profile projects and partnerships with renowned brands further underscores their significance in the sports marketing industry.


3. Wasserman

  • Website: teamwass.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 62%, United Kingdom (UK) 24%, Canada 4%, Other 9%
  • Latest funding: March 2021
  • Founded year: 2002
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: wasserman

Wasserman is a sports marketing and talent management agency based in Los Angeles, California. Founded in 2002, the company specializes in representing elite athletes, coaches, and media talent, providing a wide range of services that include marketing, event creation, and brand development. With a workforce of over 3,300 employees, Wasserman operates on a global scale, with a presence in 28 countries and more than 68 cities worldwide. The agency has successfully negotiated over $5 billion in marketing deals for its clients and has a notable track record in talent representation, including 30+ #1 overall picks in major sports drafts. Wasserman also emphasizes social impact and diversity, actively working to increase representation across its workforce and client roster. Their extensive experience and innovative strategies position them as a significant player in the sports marketing industry.


4. Sportfive

  • Website: sportfive.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
  • Employee distribution: Germany 52%, France 14%, United States (USA) 11%, Other 23%
  • Latest funding: $1.1B, January 2007
  • Founded year: 1987
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: sportfive

Sportfive is a sports marketing agency based in Berlin, Germany, founded in 1987. The company focuses on creating strategic partnerships between brands, rights holders, and media platforms. With a workforce of over 1,700 employees, Sportfive operates across multiple countries, including Germany, France, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Their services range from sports consulting and partnership sales to marketing and sponsorship activation, catering to various sectors within sports and entertainment. Sportfive has a notable track record, having worked with prominent sports organizations and athletes, including Borussia Dortmund and Jon Rahm. Their commitment to innovative marketing solutions and a data-driven approach positions them as a significant player in the sports marketing industry.


5. Infront Sports & Media AG


Infront Sports & Media AG, headquartered in Zug, Switzerland, is a prominent sports marketing company that specializes in managing media and marketing rights for international sports events. Established in 2003, Infront provides a comprehensive suite of services that includes sports sponsorship, media rights distribution, and sports broadcast production. The company caters to a variety of clients, including sports federations, brands, and media companies, helping them to enhance audience engagement and maximize their reach. Infront is also known for its innovative approach, particularly through its Engines 365 product suite, which offers tools for content automation and fan engagement. With a workforce of approximately 777 employees, Infront operates globally, maintaining a strong presence in multiple countries and collaborating with numerous rights holders and sponsors. Their commitment to evolving the sports marketing landscape is evident in their strategic partnerships and initiatives aimed at addressing current industry challenges.


6. GSE Worldwide

  • Website: gseworldwide.com
  • Ownership type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Latest funding: September 2024
  • Founded year: 2018
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: gseworldwide

GSE Worldwide is a sports marketing agency based in New York, specializing in athlete representation and talent management. Founded in 2018, the company has quickly made its mark by offering a full suite of services to athletes across various sports, including football, golf, and tennis. GSE Worldwide focuses on maximizing the marketability of its clients, providing them with sound business advice and managing their careers effectively. In addition to athlete representation, GSE Worldwide consults with brands, helping them engage with sports audiences through strategic partnerships and marketing initiatives. The agency also plays a significant role in the growing area of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals for collegiate athletes, ensuring that they can capitalize on their personal brands. With a global presence and a commitment to delivering tailored solutions, GSE Worldwide operates in multiple locations, including Charleston, Mexico City, London, Miami, Los Angeles, Portland, Zurich, and Washington D.C.


7. Independent Sports & Entertainment (ISE)


Independent Sports & Entertainment (ISE) is a sports management agency based in Los Angeles, California, founded in 2012. The company specializes in providing representation, marketing, and consulting services to athletes and brands. ISE aims to enhance client potential through strategic guidance, effective contract negotiation, and comprehensive brand development. Their clientele includes professional athletes across various sports, as well as brands seeking impactful marketing partnerships. ISE operates with a client-centric culture, offering tailored strategies and personal service to ensure that each client receives the support they need to succeed. The agency has established a network that spans sports, entertainment, and media, allowing them to create valuable opportunities for their clients. ISE has offices in multiple cities, including Atlanta, Chicago, Indianapolis, and Los Angeles, which further enhances their reach and influence in the industry.


8. Excel Sports Management

  • Website: excelsm.com
  • Ownership type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 80%, India 8%, United Kingdom (UK) 3%, Other 8%
  • Latest funding: December 2020
  • Founded year: 2002
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: excel-sports-management

Excel Sports Management, founded in 2002 and based in New York City, is a private equity-owned sports management agency. The firm represents professional athletes across a variety of sports, including basketball, baseball, golf, and football. Their comprehensive services include contract negotiation, performance development, and brand marketing, all aimed at helping athletes maximize their potential and navigate the complexities of their careers. Excel Sports Management also collaborates with brands to create strategic partnerships, leveraging top-tier talent to enhance brand visibility and engagement. The agency prides itself on its consultative approach, tailoring strategies to meet the unique needs of each client. With a team of experienced agents and marketers, many of whom have played or worked at the highest levels of their respective sports, Excel Sports Management is committed to being at the forefront of player development and brand building.


9. Pitch International

  • Website: pitchinternational.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 85%, Qatar 9%, Other 6%
  • Founded year: 2004
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: pitch-international

Pitch International, founded in 2004 and based in London, is a sports marketing agency that specializes in media rights representation, event management, sponsorship services, and the production of sports documentaries. The company serves a variety of clients, including sports organizations, brands, and athletes, helping them to optimize their commercial potential. With a workforce of around 102 employees, Pitch International operates globally, with a significant presence in the UK and additional offices in locations such as Qatar, New York, and Sydney. Their expertise extends to managing high-profile events and providing consultancy services that enhance sponsorship opportunities. The agency is known for its strong relationships with major sports entities and its ability to adapt to the evolving demands of the sports marketing industry. They have also produced critically acclaimed sports documentaries, further showcasing their commitment to storytelling within sports. Pitch International's approach is data-driven, ensuring that they identify and leverage untapped revenue streams for their clients.


10. CSM Sport & Entertainment

  • Website: csm.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Latest funding: July 2023
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: csm-sport-%26-entertainment

CSM Sport & Entertainment is a marketing agency based in London, UK, founded in 2011. The company operates globally, employing over 1,200 professionals across more than 20 locations. CSM specializes in sports and entertainment marketing, offering a comprehensive suite of services that includes audience insights, brand consultancy, event management, and digital communications. Their clientele primarily consists of brands and rights holders looking to enhance their marketing strategies and engage audiences effectively. CSM has made significant strides in areas such as women's sports and esports, reflecting their adaptability to industry trends. They also emphasize data-driven approaches to partnership activation, showcasing their commitment to measurable outcomes in marketing campaigns.


11. Meraki Sport and Entertainment Pvt. Ltd


Meraki Sport and Entertainment Pvt. Ltd, based in Mumbai, Maharashtra, is a sports marketing agency that specializes in integrated solutions for sponsorship, rights management, digital content, and talent representation. Since its inception in 2015, the company has been dedicated to assisting brands, athletes, and sports organizations in maximizing their marketing potential through sports. Their services extend to strategic consulting and event management, aimed at boosting visibility and revenue within the sports industry. Meraki has worked with a variety of consumer brands and has a notable roster of athletes under their representation, showcasing their commitment to fostering growth in the sports sector. Their innovative approach includes a focus on sports CSR advisory, which is the first of its kind in India, aimed at unlocking the potential of sports for social and economic progress.


12. VaynerSports

  • Website: vaynersports.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Algeria 3%
  • Latest funding: January 2019
  • Founded year: 2016
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: vaynersports

VaynerSports, founded in 2016 and based in New York City, operates as a talent representation agency and sports marketing consulting firm. With additional offices in Los Angeles and Dallas, the company specializes in providing innovative career management services for professional and collegiate athletes across multiple sports, including football, baseball, combat sports, gaming, golf, and surfing. VaynerSports Consulting focuses on creating tailored marketing solutions for businesses aiming to achieve their brand and business objectives through sports. Their clientele includes a mix of athletes and companies within the sports industry, showcasing their commitment to enhancing athlete careers while also driving brand engagement through sports marketing strategies.


13. Dentsu Sports International

  • Website: dentsusports.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Singapore
  • Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 26%, Singapore 26%, United States (USA) 17%, Other 31%
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: dentsu-sports-international

Dentsu Sports International (DSI) is a sports marketing agency based in Singapore, part of the larger Dentsu Group. Established in 2010, DSI specializes in connecting brands and rights holders to sports fans through a variety of services. These include brand strategy, sponsorship management, content creation, and analytics. The agency has a strong focus on understanding fan behavior and preferences, which allows them to create tailored marketing solutions that resonate with audiences. DSI has worked with a range of clients in the sports and entertainment sectors, helping them enhance their engagement with fans through innovative campaigns. Their portfolio includes notable projects like the Ally 50/50 Pledge, aimed at increasing media coverage for women's sports, and the P&G Battle of the Paddles, which leveraged social media to engage fans. With a workforce distributed across several countries, including the UK, USA, and Japan, DSI is well-positioned to navigate the complexities of the global sports marketing landscape.


14. House of Sports

  • Website: houseofsports.nl
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Ouderkerk Aan De Amstel, North Holland, Netherlands
  • Employee distribution: Netherlands 97%, Brazil 3%
  • Founded year: 2001
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: house-of-sports

House of Sports, founded in 2001 and based in Ouderkerk Aan De Amstel, North Holland, is a private sports marketing agency. With a team of approximately 99 employees, the agency specializes in connecting brands with athletes and sports events. Their service portfolio includes consultancy, athlete management, event organization, and brand activations. House of Sports has worked with a variety of clients, helping them leverage sports as a powerful marketing tool. They are actively involved in organizing both national and international sports events, showcasing their expertise in event management. The agency also manages athletes, assisting them with their commercial endeavors and social media presence, allowing them to focus on their sports careers. Their commitment to delivering impactful marketing solutions positions them as a significant player in the sports marketing sector.


15. IOS Sports & Entertainment

  • Website: iosindia.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: New Delhi, Delhi, India
  • Employee distribution: India 87%, Lebanon 4%, Germany 4%, Other 4%
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: ios-sports-%26-entertainment

IOS Sports & Entertainment, founded in 2005 and based in New Delhi, India, operates as a private sports marketing agency. The company specializes in talent management, sports marketing, and event operations, catering to athletes, sports franchises, and brands. With a workforce of around 67 employees, IOS has built a reputation for enhancing visibility and engagement through strategic marketing initiatives. They manage a portfolio of prominent athletes, including Olympic medalists and national champions across various sports. IOS has also executed numerous national and international events, showcasing their expertise in event management. Their services extend to in-film branding, where they integrate sports marketing with entertainment, further broadening their impact in the industry. The company has worked with over 200 brands, indicating a robust client base and a commitment to driving revenue through effective marketing strategies.


16. You First


You First is a Madrid-based global sports and entertainment agency founded in 2002. With a workforce of approximately 238 employees, the company specializes in talent representation, brand services, and content creation. They cater to a wide array of clients, including athletes, brands, and right holders, providing customized strategies to enhance visibility and engagement in the sports and entertainment sectors. Their services span marketing consulting, event management, and digital content production, with a strong emphasis on data and insights to drive audience engagement. You First manages over 100 players in top leagues worldwide and operates in 28 countries, showcasing their extensive reach and expertise in the industry. They also produce high-impact content for various platforms, managing over 170 YouTube channels that collectively achieve 180 million views annually. This multifaceted approach allows them to effectively connect brands with fans across sports, esports, and entertainment.


17. Isl

  • Website: islagency.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Miami, Florida, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: Spain 51%, United States (USA) 45%, India 4%
  • Founded year: 2013
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: islagency

ISL is a Miami-based sports management and marketing agency founded in 2013. The company specializes in providing a range of services tailored to sports organizations, brands, and athletes. Their offerings include event management, sponsorship and endorsement facilitation, talent management, and travel management. ISL has a strong focus on international growth, leveraging its extensive network to create opportunities for its clients. The agency has been involved in high-profile projects, such as organizing tours for FC Barcelona and Manchester City, which highlights their operational capabilities in the sports marketing arena. With a multicultural team and a presence in both the United States and Spain, ISL is well-positioned to navigate the complexities of the global sports market.


18. Team Sports Marketing

  • Website: team.lat
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Mexico City, Mexico City, Mexico
  • Employee distribution: Mexico 100%
  • Founded year: 2012
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: team-sports-lat

Team Sports Marketing, established in 2012, is a marketing agency located in Mexico City, Mexico. The firm specializes in sports and entertainment strategies, offering a range of services that include marketing consulting, event activation, and project management. Their team comprises individuals with extensive backgrounds in sports, including former professional athletes and executives from sports institutions. This expertise allows them to create tailored marketing solutions that enhance brand visibility and audience engagement. Team Sports Marketing has collaborated with a variety of clients, including the Mexican National Soccer Team, Club America, and major corporations like Scotiabank and Mastercard. Their work spans multiple projects, from digital platform management to sponsorship activation, showcasing their ability to connect brands with sports audiences effectively.


19. ICM, Inc.

  • Website: icmtalent.com
  • Ownership type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
  • Latest funding: December 2011
  • Founded year: 1975
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: icm-inc

ICM, Inc., known as Creative Artists Agency (CAA), is a prominent talent agency and consulting firm based in Los Angeles, California. Founded in 1975, CAA specializes in representing clients across various sectors, including sports and entertainment. The agency assists athletes in securing opportunities, managing their brands, and enhancing their visibility. CAA's services extend to brand consulting, partnership sales, and sports endorsements, making it a key player in the sports marketing industry. The firm represents a wide array of clients, from individual athletes to sports teams and leagues, helping them navigate the complexities of brand management and marketing strategies. CAA's innovative approach has allowed it to remain relevant and influential in the ever-evolving landscape of sports marketing.


20. B-Engaged

  • Website: b-engaged.co.uk
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 68%, Germany 21%, Saudi Arabia 11%
  • Founded year: 2014
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: bengageduk

B-Engaged is a sports marketing agency based in London, UK, founded in 2014. The agency specializes in engaging athletes and brands with sporting audiences, offering services that include athlete marketing, brand marketing, and creative solutions. With a team of 20 employees, B-Engaged operates through a global network, with offices in key regions such as North America, Germany, and Saudi Arabia. The agency has worked with a variety of clients, from established brands like Mercedes AMG and Adidas to emerging athletes, showcasing their ability to cater to different market segments. B-Engaged has successfully executed numerous campaigns, activating over £30 million worth of deals and producing more than 50,000 assets. Their mission is to unite brands with sporting audiences, sparking engaging conversations that resonate and redefine culture. The agency's commitment to talent development and innovation is evident in their strategic partnerships and creative projects.


21. rEvolution

  • Website: revolutionworld.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 77%, United Kingdom (UK) 17%, Singapore 3%, Other 3%
  • Founded year: 2001
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • LinkedIn: revolution_2

rEvolution is a Chicago-based sports marketing agency that has been operational since 2001. With a workforce of approximately 413 employees, the company specializes in integrated marketing services, sponsorship consulting, and brand strategy. They collaborate with brands, broadcasters, and rights holders to craft campaigns that connect meaningfully with fans. Their services include sponsorship strategy and research, media services, live events, experiential marketing, and corporate hospitality. rEvolution has developed a reputation for creating memorable brand experiences, such as their innovative Drive-In Gamedays, which reimagine the gameday experience for fans. The agency also operates several specialized divisions, including REV/XP for gaming and esports, and rEv Youth, focusing on youth marketing. Their case studies highlight successful partnerships with notable brands like Continental Tire and American Family Insurance, demonstrating their capability to deliver impactful marketing solutions.


22. Learfield

  • Website: learfield.com
  • Ownership type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Plano, Texas, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Latest funding: $150.0M, September 2023
  • Founded year: 1972
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: learfield-img-college

Learfield, founded in 1972 and based in Plano, Texas, operates as a sports marketing agency with a specific focus on collegiate athletics. The company manages multimedia rights, ticketing solutions, and marketing services for universities and athletic departments. With a client roster that includes over 200 collegiate properties, Learfield plays a crucial role in enhancing fan engagement and creating sponsorship opportunities. Their services extend to various aspects of sports marketing, including digital marketing, branding, and licensing. Recently, Learfield secured $150 million in funding in September 2023, which underscores their active presence and potential for growth in the sports marketing industry.



Sports Marketing Insights: Key Companies


CompanyHeadquarterSizeFoundedOwnership
ImgLondon, Ohio, United States (USA)1001-50001960Corporate
OctagonStamford, Connecticut, United States (USA)501-10001983Private
WassermanLos Angeles, California, United States (USA)1001-50002002Corporate
SportfiveBerlin, Berlin, Germany1001-50001987Corporate
Infront Sports & Media AGZug, Zug, Switzerland501-10002003Corporate
GSE WorldwideNew York, New York, United States (USA)51-2002018Private Equity
Independent Sports & Entertainment (ISE)Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)51-2002012Private
Excel Sports ManagementNew York, New York, United States (USA)51-2002002Private Equity
Pitch InternationalLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-2002004Private
CSM Sport & EntertainmentLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)1001-50002011Corporate
Meraki Sport and Entertainment Pvt. LtdMumbai, Maharashtra, India51-2002015Private
VaynerSportsNew York, New York, United States (USA)11-502016Private
Dentsu Sports InternationalSingapore1001-50002010Private
House of SportsOuderkerk Aan De Amstel, North Holland, Netherlands51-2002001Private
IOS Sports & EntertainmentNew Delhi, Delhi, India11-502005Private
You FirstMadrid, Madrid, Spain51-2002002Private
IslMiami, Florida, United States (USA)51-2002013Private
Team Sports MarketingMexico City, Mexico City, Mexico11-502012Private
ICM, Inc.Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)51-2001975Private Equity
B-EngagedLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-502014Private
rEvolutionChicago, Illinois, United States (USA)201-5002001Private
LearfieldPlano, Texas, United States (USA)1001-50001972Private Equity


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