Matchroom enlists Dafabet as World Pool Masters sponsor

Matchroom Sports has recruited online sports betting operator Dafabet as the title sponsor of the World Pool Masters, one of its flagship cue games tournaments.

Dafabet – which includes Scottish top flight club Celtic FC, English 2020/21 EFL Championship winners Norwich City FC and the Sussex, Durham and Warwickshire county cricket teams in its portfolio – had previously served as the title sponsor of the competition in 2017 and 2019.

The agreement follows a restructuring of Matchroom’s corporate board following the decision of Founder Barry Hearn OBE to step down as Chairman, handing responsibility over to his son and Matchroom Boxing organiser Eddie Hearn.

Additionally, the company has significantly boosted its streaming and media rights portfolio, having acquired live streaming and production company Loop in April, shortly after it was also reportedly close to securing a ‘record breaking’ nine-figure boxing broadcasting deal with DAZN.

“We are thrilled to have Dafabet on board again for the World Pool Masters,” said Emily Frazer, Managing Director of Matchroom Multi Sport. “We always enjoy working with the team and their support of the event helps us to continue to push boundaries and take pool to every corner of the globe.

“We’re excited for the Dafabet World Pool Masters to return to global TV audiences and a digital audience of millions following the action across our social media platforms.”

Taking place between 22 and 25 May in Gibraltar and featuring a range of elite competitors including World Champion Fedor Gorst, Mosconi Cup MVP Jayson Shaw and Championship League Pool winner Albin Ouschan, the World Pool Masters will be broadcast on Sky Sports, DAZN and Matchroom Live.

“We’re very happy to be the title sponsors of this year’s tournament,” remarked John Cruces, Head of Sponsorships at Dafabet. “It’s the third time we’ve sponsored the event and we’ve always been happy with the coverage we’ve received. 

“A lot of credit has to be given to the Matchroom team for being able to ensure the tournament takes place safely. We wish all the players the best of luck.”

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