Earthquakes and LAFC sign multiyear deals
August 4, 2026
Earthquakes sign Dude Wipes, LAFC lands El Mexicano as back-of-kit sponsors
The San Jose Earthquakes and LAFC have secured multiyear deals with Dude Wipes and El Mexicano Brand, respectively, becoming the latest MLS clubs to utilize the league's newly approved back-of-kit sponsorship inventory. These new logos will debut on the pitch this Saturday, joining front-of-kit and right-sleeve placements as available commercial space for clubs to monetize. Alongside Inter Miami and the Houston Dynamo, these California teams round out the first four MLS franchises to announce back-of-kit sponsors.
Sports Business Journal
FIFA ends World Cup private investment plan
FIFA has officially scrapped its proposed $20 billion FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) project—a plan to sell up to a 21% minority stake in its commercial rights and tournament operations to private investors—following overwhelming backlash from major confederations including UEFA, CONCACAF, and the AFC. The controversial back-room proposal triggered a threatened boycott of all FIFA competitions, high-profile executive resignations, and widespread condemnation over poor governance and a lack of transparency. Consequently, FIFA President Gianni Infantino faces a severe crisis of confidence, with member associations calling for a comprehensive review of his leadership ahead of the upcoming presidential election.
The Stadium Business
Caitlin Clark addresses Sophie Cunningham controversy for first time, now the media has a choice
Following pre-game demonstrations sparked by teammate Sophie Cunningham's comments on transgender athletes, Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark addressed the controversy for the first time during a postgame press conference. Clark emphasized that her locker room remains focused strictly on basketball, noting that policy decisions regarding athlete participation belong to sports governing bodies. With Clark repeatedly maintaining these personal boundaries, media members must now choose between covering her as she presents herself or continuously demanding political commentary she refuses to deliver.
Awful Announcing
Manica adds Broncos stadium to NFL portfolio
Manica Architecture has been selected as the lead design firm for the Denver Broncos’ proposed retractable-roof stadium at Burnham Yard, with local firm Tryba Architects chosen to design the surrounding entertainment district. Privately funded by the Walton-Penner Family Ownership Group at an estimated cost of at least $4 billion, the development aims to replace Empower Field at Mile High in time for the 2031 NFL season. Although the franchise remains focused on this target, team leadership emphasized that community engagement and municipal processes must accelerate to keep the project on schedule.
The Stadium Business
Athletes Unlimited Cancels 2027 Season Despite Women’s Hoops Surge
Athletes Unlimited Pro Basketball has announced it is pausing its 2027 season to evaluate its long-term strategy after five years of operation. The decision comes amid shifting market dynamics, including higher WNBA player salaries following a new collective bargaining agreement and competition for talent from emerging winter leagues like Unrivaled and Project B. Although no players were under contract for the 2027 season, a league spokesperson confirmed that Athletes Unlimited may potentially return in 2028 or beyond.
Front Office Sports
Mauricio Pochettino’s Fresh USMNT Contract Comes With Incredible New Responsibilities
Mauricio Pochettino has signed a contract extension to remain head coach of the U.S. Men’s National Team through the 2030 World Cup following a round-of-16 finish at this summer's tournament. Beyond leading the senior squad, his expanded role involves advising U.S. Soccer on player development, youth programs, coaching education, and professional league collaboration. Pochettino chose to stay with the federation over returning to European club management, citing the inspiring fan support during the World Cup and a desire to build a lasting legacy for soccer in the United States.
Sports Illustrated
Molly McGrath Moving From CFB to NFL Coverage at ESPN
ESPN reporter Molly McGrath is transitioning from college football coverage to the network's NFL beat, taking on new roles as a sideline reporter for NFL Network games and the primary fill-in host for NFL Live. This move follows Disney's acquisition of NFL Network earlier in the year in exchange for a 10% stake in ESPN. McGrath, who previously worked on ESPN's top college football commentary team, expressed excitement over expanding her career and diving deeper into professional football at the highest level.
Front Office Sports
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Onvo Inks Deal as Official Convenience Store of Penn State Athletics
Onvo, a Pennsylvania-based travel plaza and convenience store chain, has expanded its partnership with Penn State Athletics through a three-year agreement to become the university's "Official Convenience Store." The deal includes in-stadium branding, promotional ownership of football field goals and extra points, block party activations, and sponsorships for specific volleyball and wrestling events. Additionally, Onvo will utilize student-athlete NIL rights for digital marketing and offer fan promotions, including a $0.20 per gallon gas discount following every Penn State football victory.
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