Commercialisation and the media
Commercialisation and the golden triangle
is managing sport to make money: treating it as a product to be bought and sold.
It depends on the : three things that rely on each other.
| Part | Gives | Gets |
|---|---|---|
| Sport | Exciting events, stars and big audiences | Money from sponsors and the media |
| Coverage, so the sport reaches millions | Audiences and viewers, and money from advertisers | |
| Money to the sport and its performers | Its brand seen by the media's audience |
So: the media make a sport popular, which attracts sponsors; sponsors pay the sport; the money makes the sport better and more exciting, which attracts more media coverage.
Key terms
Types of media
- apps and sites where people share posts, videos and comments. Performers and clubs talk directly to fans.
- The internet: websites, live streams, apps and podcasts, with results and highlights at any time.
- live coverage, highlights and documentaries; free-to-air or paid subscription channels.
- Newspapers and magazines (print): match reports, interviews and opinion.
Radio is also a type of media, with live commentary.
Key terms
Effects of the media
| Positive | Negative | |
|---|---|---|
| Sport | More money from TV deals and sponsors; more people try the sport | The media may change start times or rules to suit TV; minority sports get little coverage |
| Performers | Become role models; earn more from sponsorship | Their private lives are scrutinised; online abuse; criticism after mistakes |
| Spectators | Can watch at home, with replays and expert analysis | Paid channels cost money; fewer go to live events; bad behaviour shown on TV may be copied |
Exam tip
Give a specific effect: 'TV coverage of women's football has made it more popular, so more girls want to play'.