Independent Talent Group invests in sport agency Tongue Tied Management

Independent Talent Group has made an investment in sport talent agency Tongue Tied Management.

The transaction, for an undisclosed amount, is part of Independent’s strategy to build Europe’s leading entertainment and sport group.

Tongue Tied Management represents athletes, coaches, broadcasters and creators across a range of sports.

It focuses on representation, broadcasting, and commercial partnerships, with its client roster including leading names from football and women’s sport including Jill Scott MBE, Michael Carrick, Dion Dublin and Hayley McQueen.

Tongue Tied was founded and is led by Jo Tongue MBE, who is also a board member of Women in Football. The agency has been a pioneer in supporting the expansion of women’s sport.

The investment combines Independent’s capabilities in entertainment, sport, creators, and brand partnerships with Tongue Tied’s presence across sports broadcasting, commercial collaborations, and talent representation.

Independent’s investment will also support Tongue Tied’s next phase of growth.

Sally Long-Innes, CEO of Independent Talent Group, said: “This strategic investment is an important step in Independent Talent Group’s ambition to build Europe’s leading entertainment and sport talent group. Tongue Tied Management is an exceptional founder-led business, built on outstanding expertise, and deep client relationships – leading in growth areas like women’s sport. We are delighted to be investing in Jo and her team, supporting its continued growth.”

Jo Tongue added: “Joining forces with Independent Talent Group gives our team and clients access to a broader network across entertainment and global commercial partnerships, while preserving the spirit, culture, and personal approach our clients value. With the backing, scale and network of Independent Talent Group, we can create bigger opportunities for our clients and our people, as part of Independent’s wider ambition to build a leading sport and entertainment group. Together, we are uniquely positioned to lead the next era of growth across sport and culture.”

Duncan Heath, founder and chairman of Independent Talent Group, said: “Our ambition is to build a business that has broader capabilities and expertise at the intersection of culture, entertainment and sport whilst keeping a focus on what matters most: outstanding people, exceptional talent and long-term relationships. This investment reflects how we intend to grow in the sport and entertainment sectors – backing exceptional founders and investing in great businesses to strengthen our collective platform and give both partners more opportunities to grow.”