Infront is currently the federation’s media partner

ISU skating congress

The International Skating Union has issued a tender process for its broadcasting, sponsorship and licensing rights. 

This is the first time that the federation has combined the three areas in one tender, with the aim to integrate its strategies across the three areas. This is part of its ISU Vision 2030 plan to position skating for long-term growth. 

The ISU is currently working with Infront, and over the past two years has introduced enhanced in-venue and on-screen event experiences, revamped broadcast presentations, tailored geo-localised digital strategies, and new technologies for use in broadcast. This has included more remote production, automated highlights and more.

The organisation expects its eventual chosen partner to, “amplify the visibility and excitement of ISU competitions and events worldwide. Through forward-thinking strategies that embrace dynamic media, sponsorship, and licensing environments, the goal will be to balance revenue generation with audience growth - ensuring the continued development of skating on a global scale.”

Expressions of interest must be submitted to isurfp@isu.org by 4pm GMT on 26 March. Selected agencies will then be asked to submit RFPs by 5pm BST on 6 May. 

ISU director general Colin Smith said: “This is an exciting stage of skating’s transformation and represents a unique opportunity for the ISU and potential partners. Through this process, we are looking to collaborate with agencies equally inspired by our ambition to optimize media rights, revamping sponsorship and partnership programmes and strengthen licensing and merchandizing activities. Together, this work will be a crucial component to elevate skating for the benefit of everyone involved in our sport.”