Yutang Weekly (11.23-11.29)

Alibaba Sports Group to partner with Chinese Boxing Federation

Ali Sports Group, the sports unit of Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba Group, will sign a strategic cooperation framework with the Chinese Boxing Federation (CBF), according to Sports.cn.

The deal signals that the Alibaba Group has stretched its arms into boxing following its major investment in Chinese Super League side Evergrande FC and the establishment of a sports unit.

Former Manchester City star launches first youth training base in China

Sun Jihai, former Manchester City star and a current player of Chinese Super League side Chongqing Lifan FC, has launched his first youth soccer training base in the South-Western Chinese city.

Following an agreement with a local sports park, the base will include 10 pitches on a 99 acre site. There will be an 11-a-side pitch, three 7-a-side pitches and six 5-a-side pitches according to reports. The 11-a-side pitch, particularly, will be constructed in accordance with international standards.

Dongfeng Nissan claims sponsorship rights to Guangzhou Evergrande

Dongfeng Nissan Passenger Vehicle Company, a joint venture founded in 2002 by Nissan Motor Co. and China's Dongfeng Motor Corp, said it was astonished by Guangzhou Evergrande’s dropping of its jersey ads in the final match of the AFC Champions League, according to Nissan’s official post last Saturday night.

Arsenal FC to exhibit FA Cup trophy in China

The Premier League giants Arsenal FC is set to exhibit the club’s English FA Cup Trophy in four Chinese cities from November 28 to December 9.

In an effort to engage the supporters in China, Robert Pires, a former France international and legend of the Gunner, will also be in presence at the exhibitions.

Dalian Wanda launches Wanda Sports

Chinese conglomerate Dalian Wanda Group has announced that Infront Sports & Media and the World Triathlon Corporation (WTC) with its IRONMAN brand will be integrated into a newly formed entity, Wanda Sports.

Philippe Blatter, President & CEO of Infront Sports & Media will step up to lead the Wanda Sports’ business as President & CEO. The experienced top management of both Infront and the WTC (IRONMAN) will remain in place.

PPTV extends partnership with Liverpool FC

PPTV, a leading Chinese video service provider, has extended its partnership with Premier League giants Liverpool FC which will see the Shanghai-based company become the TV and STB partner of the Reds in China from January 1st 2016.

In an effort to boost the presence of Liverpool FC in China, former legend Robbie Fowler was also in attendance at the ceremony.