Jermaine Malcolm Sports Lawyer
Lewis Marsden Journalist
alexis armitage Lawyer
Mark bowden Mental Performance Coach
Duncan Wright Journalist
Michelle Sloane Lawyer
Calum Hanrahan SolicitorShakespeare Martineau
Phil Parkinson Head of Commercial law at Blacks Solicitors
ootballers’ Life Consultancy supports professional players, clubs and executives at all levels across Europe. Utilising our industry-leading European network, particularly across the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium we are able to offer support with the transfer of player’s, staff and general introductions in a highly professional manner.
Owned and operated by British born Duncan Pratt who played professionally in the Netherlands, Footballers’ Life Consultancy offers a genuine, personal experience to its clients and can offer support in a vast range of services: If
The World Cup in Qatar has started and in this edition we take a look at all of the participating nations.
Away from the football festivities of Qatar 2022, we reflect upon the amazing start to Premier League life for ‘Goal Machine’ Erling Haaland, who is looking like he will break record after record at Manchester City.
In addition and as always we have a multitude of advice articles including Data Protection and branding association. Without giving too much away, we also dive into an analysis of the Premier League’s revenue streams compared to that of other major European leagues.
Finally and by no means of less importance we are pleased to present a variety of lifestyle, fashion and travel articles which include some of Scotland’s very best Golfing resorts amongst lots of other things.
Best wishes, Duncan
We hope you enjoy this edition, please send comments
Football is littered with stories of promising young players about to become the best the world has ever seen, only for them to fall by the wayside as the hype catches up with them.
Some of those go on to have stellar careers, but many drop out of sight and out of mind as the transition from bright teenage hopeful to the grind of the professional game proves too big a hurdle to overcome.
But from time to time a freak of nature comes along - a kid so good in body and mind that they climb the heights of stardom with uncanny ease.
Think Wayne Rooney, a man in a boy’s body when he made his breakthrough at Everton before announcing himself on the international stage at Euro 2004 aged just 18.
Lionel Messi took Barcelona onto a different level when he burst into their already brilliant team - and Ronaldo as a 17-year-old in Brazil, so comfortable in any environment on the pitch at such a young age.
The whispers about Erling Haaland have been around ever since he was just the latest of those ‘stars in waiting’ coming through the system in Norway at Molde under former Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
The problem was, he wasn’t already at a major club where it would be hard to question the real quality of a player. There were always some ready to question if he could actually cut it at the highest level, or predicting his game would be found out on the big stage.
Those doubts were there when he was taken to Austria by RB Salzburg as an 18-year-old. Seventeen goals in 16 league appearances later, when Borussia Dortmund snapped him up, the cynics were there again - it’s one thing scoring in Austria, but the Bundesliga is another standard completely.
You would have thought that 62 goals in 67 league appearances for Dortmudnd would have been enough to prove he was the real deal, but no - when Manchester City came calling last summer there were still many eager to say the Norwegian would struggle in the biggest league in the world game.
But Haaland eats up the doubters, the naysayers and the cynics as easy as he does opposition defences and the footballing public in England now finally see he is the real deal. Quite simply, the impact the 22-yearold has made at the Etihad has been astonishing. 19 goals in his first 11 Premier League and Champions League appearances.
In those matches he registered three hat-tricks, and the irony is the only game he failed to score in was a 4-0 drubbing of Bournemouth in City’s opening home league match of the season.
All with the air of a player who at 6ft 4in tall, with a physique of solid muscle, looks imperious to his rivals in terms of ability and standing.
So it is somewhat surprising to discover that inside that hulking frame, and despite wreaking havoc on defences throughout Europe, Haaland still has the same doubts as the mere mortals.
“Yes, I get nervous,” Haaland says. “You’re normally nervous before the game.
“But when you come into it, for me my whole life I’ve been kind of using football as a kind of getaway. You know, when I had maybe a bad day at school or if my father were mad at me, I went to the pitch and then I forgot everything.
“And this is something I still have. But yeah, I’m nervous as I think everybody else in this world. I don’t have to hide that I’m nervous. I’m sometimes anxious or whatever. But that’s I think that’s a part of life and I think it’s about still being focused while you’re nervous, you know, to try to still do the right things even when you’re a bit uncomfortable.
“Pressure will always be there no matter what on footballers, no matter where you play.We have a kind of exam every single weekend. And that’s just how I live. That’s how my life would be for the next 10-15 years.”
What the Premier League as now is a genuine world class talent, arriving in the top flight still with his best year ahead of him.
And he has re-written the rules in terms of how easy he has made the game look in a country which styles itself on being the toughest nut to crack in terms of the domestic league’s physical intensity and demands.
Haaland loves shattering illusions, borne of a singleminded approach to developing his game and ensuring he becomes the best possible version of himself he can be.
He adds: “With training, some people speak about how you have to train the most to become the best - I don’t.
“I don’t think it’s about training the most. I think it’s about training the right things. If I train in something that’s meaningless for me, and I become good at it, but I can never prove it and show it within a game because it’s not a thing I need, you know, then training is not so important.
...my
“
“But to train on the right things, as much as your body and you can handle, I think that’s the thing, That’s one of the keys and it’s about balancing, becoming better and recovering to the game and to be sharp for the game.
“When I was in my hometown club Bryne, you know, I couldn’t head the ball. I was not scared of the ball. But you know, when you’re really new to something I was like, how should I do it?
“Then I came to Molde with Ole and the first thing he said was like ‘you cannot head’. So almost every single day I got crosses from him and Mark Dempsey, crossing the ball and I was heading. Mark Dempsey was throwing the ball, just easy., I was standing on five metres and he was standing in the goal I just tried to hit it straight.
“So once you know, nothing is better when you practice on something, and then you see the results, you can see it’s getting a bit easier, or I finally scored the goal on the head.
“That’s also kind of a motivation, you know, I even want to become better.”
Haaland’s seamless transition to life under Pep Guardiola at City, and to the English game, suggests he is going to be a force of nature during his career at the Etihad.
Even legendary former City striker Sergio Aguero predicted it would take time for the Norwegian to adjust to the methodical demands of Guardiola, drawing on his own experiences of working with the Spaniard.
City’s approach is different to many - rarely do they try to rush the ball forward to their striker, preferring to pass around the pitch with freedom, waiting, probing and trying to spot the perfect moment to step up the pace to attack with real purpose.
It can often leave Haaland isolated in attack, not that he cares a bit. “It can be a bit lonely, you can say sometimes up there you know, but I enjoy to be alone,” said Haaland. “For the last few years I’ve been playing and living alone. So I’m used to being alone.
“So then I just think like this. I try to just enjoy my own company and to and to be ready because when you least expect it a chance comes.
Patience in football is one of the biggest, most important things and especially for me as a striker. To be patient and to wait.
“Don’t overthink, don’t stress too much because I don’t think it’s a good thing. And to wait because I know I will get a chance, I have to think like this. And when I think like this, I always stay sharp”
don’t stress too much because I don’t think it’s a good thing.
PANISH football has long enjoyed a reputation for a development system that produces high-class talents across all levels of their game - but for them that is not enough.
The model in the country has often been examined and copied by other nations as the best way to take talented schoolkids and maximise their potential.
It has happened to such an extent that, backed by the millions in the Premier League, the academy system in England is now leading the way in building a crop of highlyskilled youngsters now starting to make an impression both domestically and internationally.
LaLiga bosses have not been standing still, for over the past six years they have been working behind the scenes to harness what they already had, spot the weaknesses and construct a new plan of action.
The result is the National Plan for the Optimisation and Improvement of Youth Academies - a policy that has been universally agreed by all LaLiga clubs who have even shared their own secrets for success with rivals for the greater good.
The concept aims to take national grassroots football to a new level, professionalising teams’ youth academies, levelling up standards between the sides to increase competitiveness to in turn boost the standards of the professional game.
Aside from the obvious in terms of pure technical coaching, they are keen to give all academies access to the latest technological advances to help increase efficiency.
Luis Gil, director of competitions at La Liga, added: “The visionary element is the key to the Plan: working collectively will achieve much greater growth for the whole of grassroots football by bringing together the strengths of all the successful individual initiatives that clubs have been undertaking in recent years.
The clubs have also shown a great willingness to collaborate and share knowledge and ideas, because they understand that this is something that will benefit everyone and help Spanish football to grow as a whole.”
The Plan, a turning point in the history of Spanish grassroots football that marks the culmination of 6 years of work, has been designed around the work carried out hand in hand with the clubs.
La Liga’s head of sports projects Juan Florit explained: “Usually you work on a project like this when the situation is negative, but it is better to do it when things are good. We have the strength, the collective sense and the knowledge from La Liga clubs to improve even more.
“This is one of the things we are proudest of, because it’s not easy.
“It’s not easy to persuade the Manchester City Academy Director to share what they do with the Liverpool Academy Director, for example.
“But, little by little, we are breaking down the walls in La Liga. When we launched the plan we did it at Osasuna in two days.
On the second day, their Academy Director, in front of the 41 other Academy Directors, explained their model, methodology, processes and how they train the players.
“After that the Academy Directors have arranged visits to each other. This is unprecedented and it is very powerful.”Director, in front of the 41 other Academy Directors, explained their model, methodology, processes and how they train the players.”
Spanish officials have studied what has been working in the system in Ebngland, along with other nations such as Germany and Netherlands - keen to ensure they take the best standards forwards along with their own tried and tested methods.
Florit adds: “We at LaLiga are expressly committed and responsible for playing a part in the achievement of the clubs’ goals by establishing this project.
“We have identified a number of indicators for several strategic areas that have a direct impact on the work of the youth academies, and will work with each club to define the final targets based on their different circumstances, according to their strengths and weaknesses, as well as identifying opportunities for improvement for each of them.
“The areas and indicators that make up the plan are the result of several years of study and analysis, both individual and collective, carried out by LaLiga, and the achievement of the objectives is a long-term proposition, with an emphasis on qualitative rather than quantitative elements: We are committed to quality and sustainable growth through an ambitious but realistic vision.”
- Infrastructures and resources. One of the key areas of the Boost LaLiga Plan, which is particularly relevant in the case of youth academies: It is recommended that investment be made in adequate infrastructure, such as the improvement of training centres, and technological tools, an area in which LaLiga will also make various resources available to the clubs, such as the LaLiga Academy Manager software, created by LaLiga Tech, LaLiga’s technological subsidiary. In addition, the use of technology and big data will be promoted among the youth teams.
- Comprehensive care for the player: A differential area of the Plan, which points out the need to approach player training from a holistic point of view, not just a sporting perspective. In particular, attention will be paid to their academic and personal development, as well as psycho-social and mental health care. In this area, targets will be set with each club, for example, in terms of youth players studying at university or high school. LaLiga thus reiterates its commitment to academic training in youth academies, which it enhanced in 2019 with the launch of the LaLiga ProPlayer programme, which offers scholarships to youth academy players to combine sport and study at universities in the USA.
- Development and transition to professional football: An area that will reflect the success of the initiative and which represents a commitment by the clubs to more sustainable growth of their professional teams through their youth academies, the identification and retention of talent in Spain and greater financial prudence in the transfer market. The plan includes as indicators of long-term success, youth academy players who form part of the first team, players called up to national teams or those who end up playing for clubs in the five major European leagues.
- Training model and transition to competition: The philosophy and training plan is approached from a methodological point of view. Clubs must have their own established philosophy and training approach to guide the activity and development of the youth academy.
- Structure and professional development: The focus is on the professionalisation of youth academies, characterised by one key element: even more demanding requirements in terms of training, specialisation and stability of the technical staff, ensuring a more professional and high-quality structure. LaLiga has been working in this direction in recent years through the LaLiga Training Hub, a training space for youth academy professionals promoted by the organisation through the use of collective intelligence and the creation of a space for interaction between the 42 LaLiga Santander and LaLiga SmartBank clubs.
The decision to award Qatar the privilege of hosting football’s international showpiece event certainly caused shockwaves across the sporting world. Back in December 2010, when FIFA announced the Qataris had been successful in their World Cup bidding campaign, few international spectators greeted the news with open arms. Fast-forward twelve years, and many of the game’s senior stakeholders still hold huge reservations.
In a different context, the news would be hailed as a victory for equality and continental progression. There have only ever been two Asian nations that have previously facilitated a World Cup tournament on home soil, when South Korea and Japan joined forces to stage the 2002 edition. Moreover, it’s the first time an Arab nation will pick up the reigns, despite the region providing its fair share of World Cup finals entrants over the last few decades.
However, these positives have all but washed away in a wave of international condemnation, as the spotlight inevitably focuses on the Gulf state’s abject human rights abuse record, and its intolerance of those within the LGBT community. A tournament boycott has never really been tabled as a realistic, potential option, but a number of influential figures have been forthright in displaying their discontent.
It’s believed that thousands of migrant workers, stripped of basic employment rights and exposed to horrific working conditions, have and will continue to perish in the construction of tournament stadiums and amenities. Indeed, a recent investigation conducted by The Guardian deduced that foreign workers, often scrambling from impoverished lands and at the mercy of Qatari employers, are under-nourished, under-paid (or not paid at all), and had personal identification documents taken on arrival. In essence, the media outlet concluded, workers operate in a capacity tantamount to slave labour. Homosexuality is regarded as a criminal offence in the country, with sentences ranging from extensive fines all the way through to seven years imprisonment. With football finally starting to address its historical failures in supporting the LGBT cause, many perceive Qatar to be a significant risk to the games more progressive recent discourse.
Aside from these more pressing issues, there was also the question of Qatar’s infrastructural prowess. The vast majority of stadiums have had to be built from the ground-up, with the peninsula state not exactly renowned for staging major footballing events, whether domestically or otherwise. Furthermore, Qatar’s extreme climate, a product of its desert terrain and geographical location, is hardly conducive to the intensive exertions of elite international football. Indeed, so much was the trepidation surrounding the excessive temperatures of the Qatari summer,
FIFA intervened to re-schedule the World Cup for the cooler months of November and December. For most European nations, this represents a major disruption to native league seasons, catalysing a colossal re-calibration of fixtures, whether that be in leagues, cups, or in European competition. Although this may feel like a eurocentric perspective, there are far fewer leagues operating within the confines of the calendar year as opposed to those contested between July and May. The result? Fixture pile-ups, fatigued players, and disgruntled fans.
Nevertheless, the hosts will hope the negative noise has at least partially subsided prior to the 2022 World Cup’s opening fixture on 21st November. Attention then will turn to the field, as, for the last time in the current 32team format, the planet’s best international sides compete for the biggest prize available.
We look at the potential major headliners in the Middle East, reviewing the early favourites, the silent assasins, and the downright unknown quantities. In many ways, this tournament may not represent a typical World Cup, but the drama, controversy, and emotion embedded into the very DNA of this competition will unquestionably be as prevalent as ever.
Where better than to start with the hosts themselves?
Drawn in an intriguing Group A line-up with Ecuador, Senegal, and the Netherlands, Qatar will help get the proverbial ball rolling as they take on the group’s South American outfit on the opening day.
For some nations, the achievement of reaching a major tournament marks a landmark victory in itself. The qualification journey feels more challenging each year, with socalled ‘weaker’ nations developing at a rapid rate of knots. However, countries that have traditionally found themselves on the periphery of the international arena, will be buoyed by the introduction of a 48-team framework next time round, when Mexico, the United States, and Canada combine to stage the 2026 World Cup. We look at a few of the more unfancied sides descending on Qatari soil this winter….
Their manager, Spaniard Felix Sanchez, comes with a solid pedigree. He cut his teeth coaching in Barcelona’s prestigious La Masia academy, before taking over the reigns in Qatar’s national team set-up in 2017. Although Sanchez experienced a testing start to his tenure after failing to qualify for Russia 2018, the young Catalonian has since steered the Qataris to AFC Cup glory in 2019, and has helped spearhead the country’s campaign to develop its footballing stock and credibility.
The Arab nation currently occupies a respectable 49th position in the FIFA World Rankings, ahead of established outfits such as Paraguay, Ivory Coast, and Finland. However, a recent chastising defeat to Northern Irish Premiership Champions Linfield, in what was a rather peculiar club versus country friendly fixture, has served to cast doubt on Qatar’s credentials.
For decades, Canadian fans have had to peer enviously toward their powerful neighbour in the south. The U.S game, seemingly on an endless path of growth and prosperity, with its domestic league now widely-respected the world over, has accentuated the shortfalls present in Canada’s domestic proposition. However, the new establishment of a franchised Canadian Premier League, coupled with the rejuvenation of its national side, has done much to stir this sleeping giant.
Qatar could prove to be to be a further catalyst in this journey towards enlightenment. Les Rouges head to the Middle East with only a single previous World Cup appearance to their name, suffering a fruitless Mexico 86 campaign, which returned no goals, no points, and no hope of an immediate return.
Nevertheless, things now feel very different. Englishman John Herdman, who formerly managed the more internationally-renowned Canada Women’s side for an impressive seven-year spell, guided the Maple Leaf’s to the summit of their qualification group, pipping a decent Mexican side to the post. However, recent player protests relating to compensation payments has somewhat overshadowed Canada’s first World Cup appearance in 36 years, with a recent fixture against Panama cancelled as a result of the team’s strike action.
Despite this, you’d be foolish to bet too heavily against the Canadians making some sort of inroads in Qatar. With the likes of Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies, Lille’s Jonathon David, and long-serving winger Junior Hoilett amongst the ranks, Canada may well upset the apple cart.
Prediction: Round of 16
Joining Canada in an intriguing Group F are Morocco, who will be hoping to manoeuvre the considerable challenges posed by Belgium, Croatia, and the North Americans. Prior to qualifying for the last World Cup in Russia, the Moroccans were on a twentyyear hiatus from football’s premier international event, making them still feel like a relatively fresh face amongst the world’s elite.
Head Coach Vahid Halilhodzic is a maverick if nothing else. The Bosnian piloted the Ivory Coast and Japan to World Cup qualification in 2010 and 2018 respectively, but was remarkably relieved of his duties on both occasions prior to the commencement of each tournament. However, sandwiched in between these campaigns was a respectable Second Round finish with Algeria in Brazil. Unfortunately, he’s also somehow managed to force talisman Hakim Ziyech into provisional international retirement, suggesting the Chelsea winger had over-exaggerated injuries to avoid playing for his national side.
Nevertheless, he still has rampaging full-back Achraf Hakimi onside, whose exploits in the Serie A, Bundesliga, and now Ligue 1 have proven he has the capability to mix it with the world’s best.
It’s often the Asian and African nations who remain unfancied, but this winter could spring a few surprises. Frequent whipping boys Saudi Arabia now look a force to be reckoned with, after topping a qualification group featuring some relative heavyweights in Japan, Australia, and China. Nevertheless, they’ll need to do something drastic to turn their woeful World Cup record around, winning just one match in thirteen attempts. However, this victory did come last time out, defeating Egypt in Volgograd four years ago.
Tunisia often makes a good account of itself, but consistently appear to lack the quality to really push on to the next level. The likes of Ellyes Skhiri, Wahbi Khazri, and Hannibal Mejbri, registered to clubs in Europe’s top leagues, will be looking to drag them closer to progressing out the groups in Qatar.
Often a tricky group to predict, these nations could equally progress to the tournament’s latter stages, or stumble at the first hurdle. However, they’ll all believe that this year could be the year things click into place…
The Danes aren’t averse to a major tournament miracle. Denmark lifted the European Championship trophy in 1992, despite only securing their place in Sweden by virtue of the political break-up of Yugoslavia and their subsequent disqualification from the competition. Since that victory on Scandinavian soil, Danish sides have huffed and puffed, but never really made huge headway.
That is, until last year, where a narrow, semifinal defeat to the hands of England at Euro 2020 will have done much to re-ignite domestic hopes. This feat was made all the more impressive considering the adversity suffered in their opening tie against Finland. The episode involving Christian Eriksen was harrowing for the onlooker, but must have severely unsettled his international teammates. Denmark’s response was inspirational, with the event galvanizing the side, and fuelling them to earn an extraordinary 4th place finish given the circumstances. If they show that spirit in Qatar, who knows what they can achieve.
In many ways, Senegal have been a victim of their own success. Their barnstorming performance in the Far East in 2002, dispatching of World Cup holders in France in the tournament opener, before blazing a trail to the quarter-finals, set a benchmark that seemed to unfortunately invite pressure rather than progress.
The Senegalese have never got anywhere close to emulating that ground-breaking run, making just one World Cup appearance in the two decades since. This came in Russia four years ago, where the Lions of Teranga crashed out before the knockout phase with more of a whimper than a roar.
However, the Gold Coast outfit have got a few more reasons to be cheerful this time around. The country is still charged following two seismic victories over Egypt, defeating them in successive penalty shoot-outs to initially lift their first ever AFCON cup, before Sadio Mane’s clinching strike put them on the flight to Qatar. Few would bet against a side in such a rich vein of form, particularly if Starman Mane is in the mood. They’re due a good year….
It feels like Croatia are the archetypal dark horses, boasting a wealth of talent and consistently capable of turning over the world’s best. However, they’ve never been able to quite convert their potential into silverware. With a golden generation of players such as Modric, Perisic, Lovren, and Kramaric in their last or penultimate tournaments, the sand is starting to run low for this young nation’s finest ever crop of talent. Beaten finalists in Russia, could the Croats go one further this time?
There should also be a quick nod to the Serbians here, who’ll be hoping the predatory instincts of two of Europe’s top finishers, Juventus forward Dusan Vlahovic and last season’s Championship goal scorer, Aleksandar Mitrovic, can power them into the later rounds.
The bookies favourite was superlative in qualifying, notching 40 goals in 17 games and remaining undefeated throughout. The 2019 Copa America champions have an embarrassment of riches, even if poster boy Neymar has struggled with form and fitness of late. The side is permeated with a number of high-profile Premier League and La Liga stars, whose big game experience could prove pivotal.
An underwhelming performance in Russia, which saw the Selecao dumped out in the quarter-finals to a fine Belgian side, was met with a rousing response, with Brazil taking their continental crown almost exactly twelve months later. The Samba nation will be hoping for a similar bounce back in Qatar, after suffering a heart-breaking loss to old enemies Argentina at Rio’s Maracanã Stadium in last year’s Copa America final.
The French, if nothing else, always seem to deliver some sort of drama. France’s major tournament narrative reads a little like a rather disturbing soap opera, with player fall-outs, shocking defeats, emotional victories and an iconic headbutt providing some of the more memorable moments Les Bleus have dished up in recent years.
World Cup winners in 1998 and 2018, bookending a Euros victory in the year of the millennium, France should never be discounted, despite their deflating second round exit to Switzerland in last year’s delayed European Championships. Didier Deschamps is now entering his tenth year in charge of the national side, and finds himself able to assemble a squad perhaps even more devastating than the troops who fired France to glory last time out. If the experienced, wily characters of Benzema, Lloris, Kante, and Giroud, can blend favourably with the upwardly mobile Nkunku, Plea, and Diaby, the French may just repeat their triumph in Moscow. Oh, and there’s also that fella Mbappe…
Jaochim Lowe’s epic fifteen-year tenure at the helm of ‘Die Mannschaft’ returned just one major honour, but losing the familiarity of such a reputable manager will take a little getting used to. Nevertheless, Germany have installed one of the most gifted coaches on the planet to replace the departed Lowe, as Hansi Flick attempts to convert his imperious club record into international substance.
The 57-year-old ex-Hoffenheim, Red Bull Salzburg, and Bayern Munich manager is undefeated since taking the reins last summer, shortly after the sides painful Euro 2020 exit in a bruising encounter at Wembley. The Germans swept aside their qualifying group, registering nine wins and returning a positive 32 goal difference into the bargain, but did suffer a shock home loss to minnows North Macedonia way back in Spring 2021. Germany will undoubtedly bring their ruthlessly efficient style to the banks of the Persian Gulf, but this tournament may have just come a little too early in Flick’s stewardship.
Last summer, most commentators would have England amongst the firm favourites in Qatar. So often the nearly men, Gareth Southgate has developed a different spirit in the camp to that associated with English sides of the past, cultivated more from humility and togetherness than egos and individual qualities. This paid off last summer, as England came as close as they have in 55 years to earning a championship winner’s medal, succumbing to a nerve-shredding penalty shootout defeat to the Azzurri.
However, that fateful night in London’s north-west pre-empted an inconsistent patch of form, culminating in this summer’s dreadful 4-0 defeat to Hungary at Molineux. The Three Lions are yet to notch a single win in this year’s Nation’s League.
Nevertheless, if Harry Kane can continue adding to his impressive tally in major tournaments, England could still pose a threat.
After a few tumultuous years on both international and domestic fronts, Spanish fans will be hoping Luis Enrique can get the national side somewhere close to the tika-taka inspired triumphs of the previous decade. The new class have taken some time to gel, finding it tough to step into the considerable boots of Xavi, Iniesta et al. However, Spaniards will draw comfort from a respectable semi-final finish at the Euros, and are looking more and more the cohesive unit with each outing.
Lionel Messi will be desperate, in what must be his last major tournament for Argentina, to repeat the heroics of his idol Maradona, and bring the World Cup home to Buenos Aires for the first time in 36 years. The Argentinians were just beaten to top spot by Brazil in qualifying, and, in similar fashion to their local arch rivals, had an unbeaten campaign. Head Coach Scaloni has done much to repair the open wounds left in the wake of a calamitous 2018 World Cup, where Argentina squeezed through the Groups despite drawing with Iceland and being humbled 3-0 by the Croats, before vacating the competition after a seven-goal thriller with France. Could the young boss guide his country to success major tournament wins?
Writer’s wildcard: In such an open tournament, the opportunity for a huge shock has slimmed; unpredictability in itself breeds a sense of predictability. Nevertheless, there are one or two who may well manage to cause a few upsets.
The Aussies are always a difficult force to measure. Their meteoric rise throughout the early part of the century has now plateaued, but their bold decision to migrate from the OFC to AFC in 2006 is still paying dividends, with a higher calibre of competition pushing Australia in the right direction. Their ticket to Qatar was sealed after two anxiety-ridden play-off rounds, having to firstly dispose of a spirited UAE side, before hero Andrew Redmayne saved the decisive spot-kick against Peru to send the Socceroo’s into raptures. Their bitter, second round injurytime defeat to Italy at Germany 2006 remains the Australia’s strongest World Cup performance, and one wouldn’t totally dismiss progression out of the group again this year.
It’s certainly difficult to predict what will happen on the park this winter in Qatar. Indeed, in such an ambiguous and volatile landscape, both inside and outside of football, there are numerous permutations that could unfold. However, it’s perhaps even more challenging to project to what extent the tournament itself will be a success. True, the spectacle of any World Cup will always avert the gaze of the watching millions, but will it be enough to provide respite for Qatar’s dishevelled organizers for the duration of the tournament?
Whether travelling to the Middle East or glued into their TV sets, fans will inescapably feel the difference this World Cup. An odd time in the calendar, curbs on alcohol consumption, and an oppressive host regime, all in a corner of the world with little historical connection to the beautiful game, will surely conspire to produce a very different tournament.
We’ll have to wait and see whether these alternate conditions will generate a product that is palatable to the rest of the footballing world.
rand associations in sport are particularly powerful, especially when it comes to clothing and kit sponsorship. Sponsorship deals can make or break a brand, and for athletes it can mean the difference between gathering more support from fans or receiving negative publicity.
Phil Parkinson, head of Commercial law at Blacks Solicitors, discusses the legal considerations that athletes, sponsors and clubs need to be aware of when it comes to brand association and sponsorship.
Sponsorship deals with the right people not only generate positive association, but also create brand awareness which is of course one of the key objectives in any brand’s marketing strategy. Sponsorship deals can place a brand front of mind, both with current customers and in some cases, with entirely new audiences.
Sponsorship deals also create brand association which is beneficial for both the brand and athlete in the right circumstances. If an athlete is sponsored by a highly popular brand, the athlete will naturally become more popular and more likely to generate crowds at matches and other sporting events.
Sports across the spectrum are well known for utilising sponsorships and brand association to drive funding, raise awareness and create new opportunities. Ultimately a sponsorship generates a partnership which clubs, athletes and brands can benefit from.
For any brand who’s ready to sponsor an athlete, there are three key legal areas that can have significant implications if they’re not thought through.
The level of exclusivity is crucial. While exclusive sponsorships can generate a number of benefits, including the association of a particular kit with the sponsor, it can put the brand at risk of having to fund the kit entirely and make other payments that are specified in the contract.
Sponsors should ensure they have established brand registration and guidelines. Registering intellectual property will make any brand even stronger and ensure they are properly protected. Registering logos as trademarks for protection is a good example. Having a strong legal team to keep track of registrations and set up brand guidelines to ensure any logos and other branding are only being used in conjunction with its wishes is a good idea. It’s also important to make sure that any licensing of the IP is agreed and made in writing.
There are always risks when contracts are signed and sponsors should have legal protections in place. This includes caps on liability for a breach of obligations, and contractual clauses to cover if the brand can’t comply with an obligation due to something beyond its control.
While players can reap various benefits from brand association and sponsorship opportunities, there are a few things they need to consider.
Have they researched the brand? It’s really important that the brand has a track record of delivering on their promises, otherwise players can be left in a situation where the partnership comes to a messy end.
Once they’ve settled on the brand, make sure that any agreements are secured in writing. Agreements should include payment terms which make it clear what the brand is expecting the player to do and just as importantly, is there anything that they cannot do?
It’s also important to clarify if agreements can be entered into with other sponsors in the same area, or if the deal includes an exclusivity clause. If exclusivity is a key requisite, is the player being compensated correctly for the potential lost revenue that would have come from other sponsors?
And finally, secure tax advice from an expert and establish whether a separate company should be established to deal with image rights. Many famous athletes have done this.
Clubs should be careful of brand sponsorships and associations. They should make sure that their players only have a sponsor that represents their values to prevent negative PR associated with an unfitting sponsor.
Contract requirements are also crucial. Seek a licence for the intellectual property associated with the sponsor’s brand so that the club and athlete has the right to use it. If the sponsor breaches third party IP rights and this negatively impacts the club it’s important to seek indemnities. Ensure protections are in place in case obligations cannot be complied with due to factors beyond the club’s reasonable control.
For more information, please visit www.lawblacks.com/business/commercial-law
When signing new players, football clubs must pay transfer fees, which are often paid in instalments. Transfer fees may also include additional charges known as “percentages’’ that are added to the total “sale price” of a player to cover management fees as well as other additional expenses. These fees are determined by way of contractual agreements with the terms being negotiated between parties.
Players should consider negotiating wage increase and reduction clauses in the event of promotion or relegation. Players are also advised to argue narrow grounds for a reduction in fees, for example, a player’s fees should not be reduced in case of injury. Clubs, alternatively, will be geared to suggest alternative ways in which to save money by insisting that a variety of instances could qualify as reducing pay.
Consideration must be taken to negotiate match appearance fees and winning bonus clauses. Prior to signing a contract, both parties must define “appearance”. This term is typically defined as a set number of minutes a player must appear on the pitch for a club. Depending on the agreed contractual terms, a player’s salary may qualify for an increase by appearing on the pitch above ‘x’ amount of minutes for the club.
Another clause to be considered is a player’s entitlement to a one-off bonus for reaching a milestone number of appearances or number of wins. Consideration should be given to the inclusion of additional payment clauses such as players being selected to make an appearance for their national team. Clubs are likely to seek to protect their interest by introducing performance based payments, as they believe this will increase players’ motivations. Players, alternatively, will be minded to take into consideration the perceived risk and uncertainty associated with this type of payment structure. A balance therefore needs to be struck in the interest of all parties when negotiating these clauses.
Additional costs such as travel, accommodation and expenses must also be negotiated accordingly between both parties. Players are also advised to negotiate a ‘signing bonus’ with their respective ‘new’ club. Likewise, players should negotiate loyalty bonuses, which are typically payable on specified dates provided that the player is still employed by a particular club. Transfer fee clauses must also be negotiated when signing a contract, and even though players do not directly receive a percentage of this fee, there are various other payments and bonuses that can be agreed between the parties for the benefit of a player.
Before transfers, clubs must consider sell-on clauses, which can be incorporated into contracts to enable third parties to receive a percentage of a transfer fee. Similarly, clubs should also bear in mind training compensation clauses, whereby a ‘new’ club must pay training compensation to the previous club that trained the player between the ages of 12-21.
Release clauses detail a mutually agreed and nonnegotiable fee which, when paid, automatically releases a player from its contract. Whilst release clauses are typically subject to qualifying conditions, such as transfer windows, such clauses automatically require a club to accept a transfer bid offer of a predetermined amount.
An alternative to Release Clauses, which are common in Spain, are Buy-Out clauses. These clauses state the amount of money a player can pay to terminate their contract with a club. Such clauses must be included within Spanish football contracts and are usually negotiated at high figures that do not necessarily reflect the realistic market value of a player.
Image rights typically cause difficulties when negotiating contracts. Often ‘new’ clubs demand the exclusive right to control how the image of a player appears in various forms of advertising and publicity. Players should be aware of any potential conflict of opportunities that their ‘new’ club’s sponsors may present in both a club and personal capacity.
Players typically appoint an agent who will organise their personal transfer fee and are the first point of contact between the two clubs. It is typical that the agent will receive a percentage of the transfer fee for their services. Players should consider negotiating the associated fees relating to their agent, with a percentage of the transfer fee having the possibility of being split between the player and the agent.
In accordance with new FIFA regulations, agent fees are capped at 3% if they are representing the player or the buyer and up to 10% of the transfer fee if they are representing the sale of a club.
There are several provisions that both clubs and players should consider when signing contracts and preparing for a transfer to ensure financial security and commitment to guidelines set by FIFA and the Football Association. Clubs and Players must not only consider these provisions but also additional factors such as transfer fees, grace periods and time frames regulated by multiple football regulators and in accordance with national laws.
For more information, please visit www.lawblacks.com/business/commercial-law
data security is a vital responsibility of clubs to protect the organisation as a whole, and its players. With the potential for data breaches to impact the function and reputation of organisations, clubs hold a key line of security responsibility.
No matter the size of the club, data security should be on the agenda of senior management. Additionally, it may be appropriate to appoint a specific individual or team to ensure data protection policies and procedures are followed in the organisation.
Aisha Akhtar, a solicitor in the Commercial team at Blacks Solicitors, discusses data protection and transfer post-GDPR and what club managers and other staff members should be aware of.
Clubs and other sporting organisations need to be careful when it comes to storing personal data. Security measures and a strong strategy should be put in place to protect against personal data breaches. This is defined by article 4 of the GDPR and the level of security is defined by article 32.
Organisations are required to periodically assess, test and upgrade their security in a way that is proportionate to the types of personal data that they process. This can include the name, age and location of players.
There are a number of things to consider when it comes to the transfer of personal data, particularly outside of the UK. Following Brexit and the CJEU judgement in the Schrems II case1, if an organisation processes personal data, or is to transfer personal data to a third party that is based in a ‘third country’ which is a country that doesn’t have a UK finding of adequacy against it, then an additional legitimising transfer mechanism will be required to be entered into.
Examples include Binding Corporate Rules, and under EU law, the Standard Contractual Clauses.
Earlier this year, following the implementation of Brexit, the ICO published its own version of the EU Standard Contractual Clauses, titled the International Data Transfer Agreement (IDTA) to replace the EU version. Clubs that are transferring personal data to a third country will be required to enter into this.
Educating people across the club about the importance of data protection and how it can be transferred and stored correctly is crucial. The more people at the club that are proficient and confident in data breach and incident management procedures, the more quickly a response can be generated in the event of a security breach.
Part of the specific responsibilities for clubs and other sporting organisations focuses on site security. A perimeter breach to any site that stores or processes data risks a data breach, particularly when it comes to the personal data of high profile players which will be of interest to both the public and press. A data breach could have significant and adverse consequences for a club and its players.
Computers, devices, or documents containing data are at risk during a site breach, and it is the responsibility of the IT team and club manager to ensure that these assets are at minimal risk.
It’s also advisable to set up reminder or update sessions in regular intervals to sustain a level of data security awareness, in addition to educating new people on the club’s policy and standards. It may be advisable to have a written policy for individuals to refer to. This will reduce confusion in the event of a data breach and bolster the standards established through training.
Ensuring that data breach policy and reporting process information is easily and quickly accessible on site is advisable to ease the data security process, but additionally to reduce the risk of sanctions for late disclosure of a breach to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).
For more information, please visit www.lawblacks.com/business/commercial-law
Edeserved rewards on and off the pitch, the tournament has also highlighted the inherent problems still facing the game.
There has been plenty of talk about a legacy being left as a result of European success, but structurally the women’s game in the country still needs huge amounts of work to actually deliver a lasting response.
NGLAND’S victory in the Euros last summer elevated the women’s game in the UK to a new level.
From s sport that was struggling to gain traction among the wider footballing public, the Lionesses suddenly catapulted the game to the kind of national attention few could have dreamt of.
Stars such as Beth Mead, Chloe Kelly and Leah Williamson were thrust into the consciousness of a country desperate to celebrate their triumph.
But while the players in Sarina Weigman’s squad have managed to find well
For while the Football Association and the professional clubs are striving to produce a compelling product at the top of the tree in the shape of the Women’s Super League and Championship, it is down at the very roots of the sport that real change is needed.
The Lionesses themselves were quick to seize the opportunity to make a stand, issuing a statement to the government urging them to provide more access to football for girls in sport.
It is a compelling argument, reinforcing the FA’s own Inspiring Positive Change strategy which is pushing for every primary school-aged girl in the country to have the same access to football as boys in schools and clubs across the country.
Earlier this year, the FA published a report which revealed that only 63 per cent of schools offer girls' football in PE lessons, with just 40 per cent providing girls regular extracurricular football.
At primary level, 72 per cent of schools offer it. That drops to 44 per cent at secondary level.
With such stark figures, it is obvious there is currently not enough resource or adequate structure within the girls game to not only provide a pathway through and up the system, but also just at the very basic level offer the kind of easy to access coaching and playing that will foster a growing fanbase into adulthood.
This hole is seen as a huge barrier into not only growing the popularity of the women’s game, but also ultimately helping to provide the interest to make the sport commercially viable in future years.
The government appear to have started to take note, and one of the last actions of the previous Boris Johnson regime was to commission a review into women’s football in England.
Former England international Karen Carney has accepted the challenge of leading the review, aiming to ensure the sustainable growth of the women’s game at elite and grassroots level.
Carney will look into the potential audience reach and growth of the women’s game, as well as calling experts to look into the financial viability of the sport and how best to maximise on the current boom in support commercially.
Carney said: “Over the last few years, the game has grown significantly and at a rapid pace.
“Of course, this is an exciting time, but there is an urgent need to ensure
there are processes and structures in place that protect the interest of the game and the people working in it.
“I have always said that the sport needs to be built on solid foundations to give it long-lasting success in a sustainable way.
“For me, this is a defining period for the sport and this review will be at the heart of that.
“We must capitalise on these powerful moments and can look back on 2022 as a year where we made great strides forward in the growth of the game.”
The FA will help with the review, issuing a call for evidence from those within the game from professional down to grass roots level.
There has also been the promise of additional support from the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and the FA.
Carney is due to produce her findings sometime in the first quarter of 2023, and the government have said they will then make a formal response –
something the DCMS are sticking to despite the change in leaders in the UK.
A full report is expected to be published early next year, with the Government then making a formal response.
Then Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries said: “The Lionesses’ spectacular performance shows how far we have come at the top of the women’s game.
“While it is right that we celebrate and reflect on that success, we need an equal emphasis on improving participation, employment opportunities, commercial investment and visibility in the media.
“We want to make sure everyone can enjoy the benefits of team sport and there is a robust infrastructure to sustain women’s and girls’ football for the future. A thorough review of the game will help ensure it is here for the long term.”
Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston also claimed in July there was a “deliberate and conscious focus” on driving up girls’ participation in football inside and outside school.
The Lionesses’ spectacular performance shows how far we have come at the top of the women’s game.
he financial muscle of the Premier League was well and truly flexed this summer, with its affiliate clubs parting with an unprecedented £1.9bn to strengthen squads ahead of the new season. Incredibly, this figure already surpasses the previous spending record set in the 2017-18 campaign, despite having only negotiated one of the two available signing windows to press. Come January, the league’s total transfer expenditure should have comfortably eclipsed the £2bn threshold.
So, what’s triggered this term’s aggressive recruitment approach, and is it a precursor to future spending behaviours in the medium-term? We review the possible drivers behind the numbers, exploring the nuances and anomalies that have catalysed this unforeseen playing investment amongst top-tier clubs. In doing so, we’ll hopefully be able to predict, with at least some degree of accuracy, the contextual landscape of
future windows, and therefore understand whether this year’s summer window was indeed an irregularity, or perhaps the onset of a re-defined business as usual.
The introduction of the transfer window system in 2002 pre-empted a material change in the way clubs formulated their respective footballing strategies. Financial leadership teams are now able to siphon investment into two clearly defined timeframes, and therefore can regulate one of their biggest cost lines with far more control and assurance. Furthermore, it enables club hierarchies to resist the temptation of ‘reactive’ player purchases, perhaps relenting to managerial or supporter pressure in the midst of a poor run of midseason form. It also allows coaches the immeasurable benefit of having a settled squad, with no fear of player movement, for the vast majority of the season.
Of course, there has been ample criticism leveraged at the summer window for permitted signings to take place during the negotiation of the season’s opening rounds of fixtures. Nevertheless, the early September closure, coupled with the one-month hiatus in January, gives managers some level of immunity from the prospect of squad unrest, an exodus of talent, or the requirement of tactical changes caused by a loss of key personnel, for at least eight months of the playing calendar. Therefore, from this perspective, you would assume the incorporation of fixed windows would help engender some serenity and structure to transfer dealings.
The reality couldn’t be further from the truth.
The counter force, which, due to its overwhelming influence, serves to somehow undermine any of the aforementioned advantages, is a product of the bottle-necking nature of the window format. By affording clubs just two, reasonable opportunities to make player acquisitions, a panic buying dynamic, not too dissimilar in spirit to high street seasonal sales, has been cultivated, and is now one of the most recognizable characteristics of football’s August and January pursuits.
However, in a Premier League context, the equivalent of the sale shopper’s mad dash to the till doesn’t result in the familiar purchasing of discounted goods or astutely selected bargains. In fact, the polar opposite materialises, with recruitment costs soaring into the stratosphere. Indeed, the condensed transaction windows are permeated with a sense of desperation and vulnerability, as clubs are left at the mercy of one another. All participants are acutely aware of the value of their prized assets, both in the context of their own financial ambitions, and the pressing need of their rivals, and so fix their prices accordingly.
The result? An insane hike in transfer spending, as clubs are swept away in a crazed market, hellbent on maintaining pace with their competitors, and petrified of falling through the Premier League trapdoor. The accessibility fans now have, through social media platforms and supporter forums, coupled with a culture of instant gratification sown from a generally more unforgiving society, only accentuates these pressurized conditions, as boards respond by throwing money around left, right, and centre. In a sense therefore, the obscene spending witnessed in England’s top-tier is an entirely self-inflicted construct.
That isn’t to say that elite leagues across the continent don’t also indulge in similarly counter- intuitive behaviours on a bi-annual basis. However, the sheer scale of the Premier League’s commercial might, and its position as Europe’s most lucrative domestic competition, has proportionately exaggerated the financial nature of the league’s transfer environment, in turn accelerating the sense of jeopardy and fragility experienced by its member clubs.
As a consequence of all this, a Premier League ‘premium’ has emerged, whereby England’s strongest sides, whether engaging in deals with fellow native clubs or those abroad, are compelled to pay excessively over the odds for player signatures. Yet, this superficial cost leveraged onto domestic top-flight transactions has now reached a new realm of economic absurdity, with the league’s more modest talents equipped with colossal price tags. Perhaps the most well-documented example of this was the transfer of Morgan Gibbs-White, as Premiership returners Nottingham Forest shelled out £26.5m for a player who is yet to acquire a full international cap. However, the Staffordshire- born midfielder wasn’t alone in this camp, with plenty of other outfits lured into dispensing million on individuals with rather limited C. V’s. Similarly, Brentford parted with £17.1m to bring Hull winger Keane Lewis-Potter to West London, despite the 21-year-old having never kicked a ball in anger in England’s top division. Marc Cucurella, who in August swapped the sky blue of Brighton for the dark blue of Chelsea, commanded a £58.8m fee. Although undoubtedly impressing in his opening Premier League campaign, Cucurella has appeared just once for his country, and never been part of a side who have finished higher than eighth in their domestic league. Astonishingly, the £50.6m paid for the Spaniard’s new Chelsea team mate, Raheem Sterling, now represents extremely good value, even though this settlement alone would have broken the global transfer record as recently as 2008.
Todd Boehly, the new man at Chelsea’s helm after the politically-motivated exit of long-term owner Roman Abramovich, didn’t confine his summer purchasing to these shores. The U.S billionaire also carried the weight of the club’s Premier League credentials in the European theatre, and was moved to pay £34m for Senegalese centre-back Kalidou Koulibaly, despite the defender entering the final year of his contract with Italians Napoli. It’s fair to say the Serie A side perhaps saw Mr. Boehly coming. Eredivisie champions Ajax were also a benefactor from the unavoidable surcharge levied on English clubs, as the Amsterdam outfit cashed in their chips on South American duo Lisandro Martinez and Anthony. Manchester United were made to fork out a cumulative total of over £137m for the pair, as new boss Erik ten Hag begins his Old Trafford recovery mission. Indeed, numerous other European enterprises have profited from the Premier League’s penchant for exorbitance, with the likes of Porto, Sevilla, and Lens generating huge incomes as a result of over-inflated deals.
Yet, perhaps the summer antics of these two English footballing dynasties are in themselves the key contributing factors to the excesses of this summer’s window. In essence, Manchester United and Chelsea’s operations epitomize the frantic, ludicrous nature of the modern game, prepared to ‘invest’ vast sums to claw back the incentive from those who have implemented superior footballing strategies over the last five years. The desperation, particularly emitting from the red half of Manchester, has been palpable for some time, and, whilst Chelsea’s activity can be partially
attributed to the inevitable course change initiated by their new American owner, there’s a nervous energy at Stamford Bridge which has inarguably washed through into this year’s recruitment policies. United finished a staggering 35 points behind the title-winning pace last term, whilst Chelsea’s 74-point haul was their best effort since lifting the Premier League trophy in the 2016-17 season. The 2008 Champions League finalists had a combined outlay of £470.1m over the 83-day transfer window, accounting for almost a quarter of total club expenditure, and making them the two highest spending sides on the planet.
Nevertheless, the fallen powers of the domestic game were ably supported by a host of others, perhaps most notably in the shape of Nottingham Forest. Last season’s Championship play-off winners have completely bucked the traditional methods deployed by newly promoted clubs, where cautious investment has usually been the order of the day. Indeed, Forest have sunk nearly twice as much into their playing squad than the combined total of fellow new boys Fulham and Bournemouth, handing over £145.8m in the process. Although there were some chunky amounts afforded to individual talents within this significant figure, the defining characteristic of Forest’s bustling transfer activity was the volume of players accrued. The East Midlander’s put pen to paper on contracts for an unprecedented 21 players, smashing the previous ‘window signing’ record held by Scottish pair Dundee United and Livingston, who both registered 19 players in 2000 and 2001 respectively.
despite the defender entering the final year of his contract...
However, perhaps the endless list of additions to Steve Cooper’s squad is merely reflective of a growing trend, and one that would suggest that 2022’s summer window might be a platform for even greater spending in the future. No less than 169 players registered for new clubs between June and August, 21 more than in 2021, and 37 more than in 2020. Of course, windows in the previous two years were impacted by pandemic-related challenges, however, with transfer totals returning more than £1bn on each occasion, it can be fairly contested that a genuine pattern is beginning to transpire. Although the difficulties presented by the coronavirus crises havn’t completely subsided, as businesses, households, and governments fight a protracted battle to return to normality, improving economic confidence has undisputedly served as a springboard for increasing football club disbursement. With stadia attendances, match day hospitality, and retail outlets all returning after a lengthy absence, and greeting hordes of fans with a renewed sense of appreciation for their social pastimes, all clubs, regardless of the league in which they reside, have received a huge financial shot in the arm over the last twelve months. Furthermore, although admittedly exclusive to the Premier League context, a renewed £4.8bn broadcasting deal certainly hasn’t deterred any green shoots of recovery.
However, although the COVID-19 bounce-back has been consistent throughout each wrung of England’s revered footballing pyramid, the spike in transfer outlay has certainly not filtered down through all divisions. Clubs in League One paid out just £2.5m in player acquisition fees in the summer, whilst Stockport County, promoted as Champions from the National League last time out, were interestingly the only League Two side to purchase any new squad members for the upcoming season. The usual lower league merry-goround of free transfers and loan deals persisted; however, a telling sign of a reserved financial approach appears when reviewing net expenditure, with both divisions seeing far more instances of cash coming in to clubs, as opposed to going out. Clearly, under these pretences, the emphatic chasm between Premiership and Football League teams can only widen. Nevertheless, the Championship, whose dominant clubs are often still in the midst of a halo effect precipitated by a stint in the top-flight, is more closely aligned to the ladder above than those below. The league presided over £86m worth of outgoing transfer spend this summer, more than doubling last year’s equivalent window. However, it’s essential to note that second-tier clubs toiled far greater throughout the duration of the pandemic, and therefore this significant uplift offers a skewed portrayal of the Championship transfer run rate. Indeed, in the three summer windows preceding the domestic outbreak of COVID-19, the average annual volume spent by participating clubs weighed in at £169.4m, nearly a 100% increase on the aforementioned total summoned by 2022’s dealings. Moreover, these spending figures pale into insignificance when comparing them to those administered by the country’s elite sides, and therefore one can safely assume that the entirety of the land’s 72 remaining league sides (and beyond) will sense the Premier League cartel edging further and further away.
So, is this summer’s formidable spending spree an indicator of things to come, or is it just a historic anomaly caused by a perfect storm of extraneous variables? Somehow, if possible, it feels like both conclusions have tangible merit.
After staying roughly around the £1.2bn range for the last two years, a £700m upturn in transfer spending is arguably a logical progression catalysed by the inherent nature of capitalist markets. Quite simply, as demand grows, prices will rise proportionately. Indeed, growing expenditure certainly has been an indelible mark of the contemporary game for a prolonged period now, with higher transfer records, astronomical player salaries, and super-charged owner investment all too familiar a feature.
Furthermore, in specific reference to the Premier League transfer battleground, the added charge placed on English sides shows no signs of abating – and why should it? Foreign-based clubs, clearly with their own ambitions and agendas, would be foolish to sell the jewels in their respective crowns for anything less than what the market ultimately dictates their value to be. A sub-plot, ironically undermining the cause of those operating in England’s top division, is the performance of native sides in continental cup competitions. In the last five years, UEFA’s showpiece finals (including last season’s inaugural Conference League decider), have played host to Premiership clubs on no less than five occasions; and, on two such instances, the fixture was an all-English affair. Aware that all roads to major European finals are paved with gold, external onlookers feel empowered to charge extortionate fees when the best sides go shopping. Therefore, in this sense, England’s top six sides have also become a victim of their own success, unintentionally contributing to the preservation of the Premier League ‘premium’.
Yet, equally, the effect of ‘one-off’ events should not be underestimated. Although their long- suffering fans may feel this day will never come, the gradual decay of Manchester United’s empire simply cannot last forever. Whether the club eventually run out of financial reserves, or perhaps more likely experience in a marked change in results on the pitch, the resultant conclusion of an end to extreme expenditure stays the same. To a less desperate, highly-charged extent, the same theory could be applied to the outcome of Chelsea’s current onslaught on the market.
Furthermore, the sense of relief garnered by the ‘ending’ of a global pandemic is unlikely to ever re- materialise. Therefore, the unique surge in fan consumption across all commercial endeavours, which, although hard to measure, likely outstripped previous spending volumes substantially, will perhaps never again be replicated. As a consequence, the bank rolling of extravagant transfer sums may quickly face additional scrutiny from those in charge of the purse strings. The confidence generated from the league’s ability to maintain a seemingly unsustainable broadcasting contract further supports a theory based on exceptionalism, with clubs perhaps acting under the pretence that they should strike will the proverbial iron is hot.
Therefore, its perhaps to wise to assume that although the potency of ‘abnormal’ factors may soon ware off, the Premier League’s transfer expenditure may, as unbelievably as it seems, continue to ascend for the foreseeable future. A scary prospect indeed.
At least Messrs Ronaldo and Messi are on the cusp of retirement…..
Davi D DEiN
Following the release of Dani: Crazy Dream earlier this year exclusively on FIFA+, the digital platform connecting football fans around the world closer to the game they love, eyebrows were raised over the chances of the 39-year-old right back, who’s currently unattached to a club, in making the Brazil World Cup Squad.
Calling the Shots: How to Win in Football and Life is the full story of David Dein’s life and career in football and business. Dein has been one of the most significant and influential figures in British football for over three decades – operating at club and international level. He was the prime mover in the creation of the Premier League (2022 is its 30th anniversary), hugely influential within the England set-up and, of course, was the mastermind – along with Arsène Wenger – in creating the glory days of Arsenal Football Club. For nearly forty years, Dein has been in the corridors of power at Arsenal, the FA, UEFA and FIFA. Calling the Shots is the story of his life and career, in which he shares incredible untold experiences publicly for the first time, covering some of the most dramatic turning points in the game and meeting many intriguing characters along the way. This is a memoir providing entertainment and inspiration for football and nonfootball fans alike when it comes to business, leadership, building a winning team and calling the shots.
David Dein MBE is the Ambassador for the Premier League and International Ambassador for the Football Association. He is the former co-owner and vice-chairman of Arsenal Football Club and former vice-chairman of the Football Association. Dein is also the founder of The Twinning Project. He spends much of his free time giving motivational speeches to schools and prisons in the UK and at football conferences globally.
However, today it was announced that Brazil coach Tite sensationally included Alves in his squad, with Alves looking set to add to his 124 national team caps at the World Cup kicking off in just a matter of weeks. With numerous league titles, Champions Leagues, UEFA Cups, Copa Americas, and more, Alves has one trophy missing from his cabinet, the World Cup. The stage is set then for dreams to become a reality.
Dani: Crazy Dream is a FIFA+ Original docuseries charting Alves’ attempt to make it into the Brazil squad for Qatar 2022 before attempting to win the coveted trophy. The all-access 6-part mini-series also delves into his club career at Sao Paulo and Barcelona, featuring interviews from Brazilian football legends throughout.
The right back’s last 12 months could have been taken straight from a film. Last summer, Alves captained Brazil’s team to an Olympic gold medal, playing every minute in Tokyo. A month later, he was without a club after leaving Brazilian side São Paulo. Dani then moved back to Barcelona, claiming his 100th La Liga assist in the process.
Speaking on the mini-series, Dani Alves said:
Brazil are set to kick-off their World Cup campaign against Serbia on 24th November and are looking to make Qatar their sixth Jules Rimet trophy – with their last coming in 2002.
The announcement was revealed in the first official grime gaming anthem, which was created by Tundra’s ambassador British rapper P Money
OUTPLAYED is released today and is available to listen to on all music streaming platforms. Watch the music video here: https://youtu.be/9FjgeTHiRmM
London, United Kingdom, 4th August 2022: Tundra Esports, a London-based esports organisation with an international roster of the world’s best Dota 2, Fortnite and FIFA talent is pleased to announce Virgil van Dijk as its new Ambassador and Shareholder. One of the best football players in the world, Virgil will be helping to elevate and grow the overall Tundra brand whilst providing support and mentorship to the organisation's professional esports players.
With the global esports market size expected to reach over US$12 billion by 2030 and with over 475 million active watchers worldwide, the announcement follows a string of celebritystatus footballers entering the esports scene including the likes of David Beckham, Sergio Aguero and Jesse Lingard. In a league of his own on the field, Virgil will be diversifying his portfolio as Ambassador and Shareholder of Tundra Esports through supporting and developing the organisation’s overarching business goals including fostering the best esports talent worldwide and holding a strong focus on performance and sportsmanship.
A long-time avid gamer, Virgil will be integrating himself further into the gaming community through his new venture. Gaming is something that has always been a huge part of Virgil’s life, from playing video games as a child to being an avid fan and player of the likes of FIFA, Fortnite and sim racing games, making him a natural fit to join the esports organisation.
“This is a major moment for Tundra. Having someone like Virgil, who is highly revered both on and off the pitch, join our team is incredible. His insight will be invaluable for our players but also how we evolve as an organisation. We have so much we can learn from sports,” said Maxim Demin, Owner and Co-Founder of Tundra Esports. “Announcing his involvement through OUTPLAYED was a stroke of genius from P Money. It’s been great to have his support and creativity to do something different that not only helps us stand out but is also something for the community. Hopefully, the community finds it as catchy as we do!”
OUTPLAYED is released today and is available to listen to on all music streaming platforms. Watch the music video here: https://youtu.be/9FjgeTHiRmM
Tundra Esports Ambassador and Shareholder, and professional footballer Virgil van Dijk commented: “I am extremely excited to be joining Tundra Esports. Tundra Esports is one of the fastest growing esports organisations in the world and they are moving in a very exciting direction. It was great to be able to collaborate with P Money and the idea behind OUTPLAYED further emphasised why I wanted to be involved to help grow the team. They have built up a tremendous reputation when it comes to player well-being within a winning culture which is something that really resonates with me. I’m excited for the future”.
Tundra Esports ambassador and grime artist P Money commented: “OUTPLAYED is a gaming anthem for everyone to enjoy. Grime and gaming pair perfectly - they have the same energy and hype, its two completely separate worlds merging. It’s been fantastic to be able to combine my two passions and to introduce my music fan base to what I’ve been doing in gaming. I want to show how both can go hand in hand and bring out others who’ve been interested but never quite had the confidence to do it.”
The announcement of Virgil as Tundra’s new Ambassador and Shareholder, was revealed in the competitive gaming anthem, OUTPLAYED which has been released today. The track is the first official grime gaming song, and was created by Tundra’s ambassador British Grime artist P Money. Created to celebrate gaming and for anyone who plays games or watches competitive gaming, OUTPLAYED is purposefully PG-rated for all gamers of any age. The track weaves in iconic gaming references throughout and has a frenetic energy mixed with electronic sounds to mirror the playful, fast-paced nature of competitive gaming. Following the increasing merge between gaming and music, OUTPLAYED was inspired by the rise in popularity of songs and anthems for esports teams.
Headquartered in the United Kingdom, Tundra Esports was formed in 2019. Boasting some of the top international gaming talent including Europe’s number one ranked Dota 2 team as well as reigning Fortnite Champion Series Champions, the organisation has an overarching focus on player development and well-being, a shared vision with Virgil. Tundra’s success has also attracted major partners including social networking platform TikTok.
P Money, who has been a lifelong gamer playing everything from FIFA and Call of Duty Warzone to Elden Ring, started contributing to music games through a modified Grand Theft Auto server called No Pixel where he made music for the server. OUTPLAYED came from Tundra’s Director of Marketing & Content Danny Lopez and P Money’s ambition to merge gaming and music even further. P Money commented: “Occasionally the path of music and gaming has crossed over, but I can see a world where the two go hand in hand across major esports events and artists expanding their discography to embrace game themed music in the future.”
For most football fans around the world, the English Premier League (EPL) is the pinnacle of the sport. And with good reason – the EPL is by far the most lucrative league globally. According to a Safebettingsites data presentation, the EPL generated a staggering €3.5B in broadcasting revenue in the 2021/22 season.
Safebettingsite's Edith Reads said: "The English Premier League is the richest football league in the world, and it's no surprise that broadcasting rights are a major source of revenue." She added: "In 2021/2022, the EPL sold its global broadcast rights for €3.5B. This is a staggering amount of money, and it just shows how popular the EPL is worldwide.
The first factor contributing to the EPL’s success is its passionate fans. Football is deeply ingrained in English culture, and the EPL has some of the most ardent supporters in the world. This passion translates into high viewership figures for broadcasters, as fans around the world tune in to watch their favorite teams play.
Another key factor that drives broadcaster interest is the quality of football on display. The EPL is home to some of the best players in the world, and this level of quality is evident in every game. This attracts viewers from all over the globe, who are keen to see some of the best players in action.
Finally, The Premier League’s success in generating income from broadcasting rights is largely due to its global appeal. The EPL brand is one of the most valuable in world sport, and this has been reflected in the amount of money broadcasters are willing to pay for the rights to show live matches.
So Why is the EPL so Successful in Attracting Broadcasters?
The top 10 clubs globally by total income in the 2020/21 season include five of the EPL’s big six clubs. Manchester City has a total operating revenue of €644 million. Others are Manchester united €557M, Liverpool €550M, Chelsea €465 and Tottenham €407M.
This is largely due to the EPL broadcasting revenue, which has allowed these clubs to significantly increase their spending on players and staff and improve their facilities. Their attracting some of the world’s best players and coaches has helped them achieve success domestically and in European competition.
AEHRA, the new global ultra premium electric automotive brand, has revealed the exterior design of its first model, an SUV. Presented to the global media in Milan, the city where AEHRA is headquartered, the radically different style of SUV delivers a revolution in automotive design. Uniquely unlocking the full design potential afforded by its state-of-the-art EV drivetrain, the AEHRA SUV represents a peerless vision of effortlessly elegant futurism.
Featuring a lengthy 3-metre wheelbase, a radically low front end and exceptionally short front and rear overhangs, the AEHRA SUV presents a design that is profoundly different to that of any other vehicle on the market today. Striking, narrow elongated headlights combine with LED lighting strips highlighting the outer edges of the lower air vents creating a unique visual signature, the SUV becomes even more attention getting during the hours of darkness.
Every single element of the SUV personifies AHERA’s unwavering determination to defy modern, mass-market automotive convention, while holding steadfast to the pure values of classic Italian design. This sentiment is instantly evident in aspects such as the glassware, which appears to flow as a single piece from the very front of the car and over the roof, before sweeping down to the rear of the tailgate in an almost liquid-like fashion. It is also dramatically expressed in the stunning elytra-like doors. Opening skywards and providing optimum ease of entrance and egress to the exceptionally spacious cabin that effortlessly accommodates four NBA-size players in complete comfort, such features are normally the exclusive preserve of supercars.
“With the SUV, we have created a vehicle that goes far beyond the conventional standards set by the automotive industry for an SUV, and sets new benchmarks for style and comfort. We have used a monobody construction, which, while used widely in Italy in the past, is now normally reserved for supercars only. We have taken an equally radical approach to aerodynamics, which play a central role in the design, driving characteristics and efficiency of the SUV.”
“With the AEHRA SUV, we have shunned the conservative constraints that have encumbered all other car manufacturers in their approach to designing EV vehicles to date. Instead, we have taken a highly courageous approach. And at AEHRA, this mindset drives not just the design of our vehicles, but every aspect, including engineering, the layout of the interior, the state-of-the-art sustainable materials we use and how we are redefining the entire customer journey,” said Filippo Perini, AEHRA, Chief Design Officer.
Using cutting-edge CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics), which have an accuracy equal to and, in some respects, greater than those achieved in wind tunnels, Perini and his team have generated a groundbreaking flowing body, which generates exceptional aerodynamic efficiency. The knowledge gained during this approach has been forensically applied to the design of the front and rear of the SUV to set optimum standards for aerodynamic drag reduction, cooling, and battery thermal management.
AEHRA has adopted innovative aerodynamic management, with movable elements at the front and rear, which offer the thrill and promise of a sporty ride and at the same time improve active safety. These solutions also optimise drag coefficient and thermal management of the batteries while also increasing the range of the car.
Utilising the full potential of ultra-advanced, exceptionally light, highly sustainable composite materials, including forged carbon fiber technologies, which have only come to the market in the last few years, further enhances the efficiency of the vehicle.
“The AEHRA SUV represents a radical combination of cutting-edge sustainable materials, ultra-advanced EV technology, smart manufacturing technologies, pure Italian design, and of course, a seminal moment in our company’s history,” commented Hazim Nada, AEHRA Founder and CEO. “Supremely comfortable, beautifully balanced, and graceful, the SUV ushers in a new era of EV style and sophistication, and signifies the next successful milestone on AEHRA’s strategic journey to a rollout of both our sophisticated vehicles to global markets in 2025.”
For more information on AEHRA and to register interest in one of their forthcoming models, see www.AEHRA.com.
At AMT we share the passion our customers have of special cars, and when it comes to the luxury, sports and performance market, no other company offers the breadth of flexible funding and acquisition options we do. Long-term rental, a range of 12 months to 60 months finance options or even outright purchase, we will find you the best funding option so you can drive the car you really want. Rent, lease, buy or sell with AMT
Mercedes AMG GT r Pre M iu M
A jacket makes the perfect gift for the man in your life to tackle the cold winter months and there is no better brand to do so than the iconic Barbour. An original Barbour International design, updated YMC-style with asymmetric collar, curved throat strap and detachable fleece fur liner which you can even wear as its own separate piece.
RRP £195.00
An homage to the timeless silhouette of 90s styles, Axel Arigato’s A-Dice Lo trainers are a versatile staple in any wardrobe. From season to season and day-tonight, the classic suede-trimmed leather silhouette can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion.
RRP £290.00
Tom Wood’s jewellery is clean and minimal, like this ‘Peaky’ ring, making them ideal for everyday wear. Crafted from sterling silver, it’s polished to a high shine and set with faceted onyx.
RRP £59.00
Rains’ compact take on a gym or weekend bag is made from the brand’s signature waterproof fabric with a matte finish. The functional design has multiple compartments to keep your belongings organised and buckle adjustable side straps to compress the shape
RRP £60.00
Coach delivers this refined card holder as a minimalist alternative to a wallet. Crafted from a combination soft leather and their signature canvas-jacquard, it has a central compartment for loose notes, and six card slots. Slip into your pocket for hassle-free organisation.
RRP £140.00
The Tank Decanter from British industrial designer Tom Dixon. Crafted from handmade, mouth blown glass, the decanter is created through a complex fusion of clear and black glass with a conical-shaped lower section and a narrow neck.
RRP £35.00
Supreme-the book-looks back on more than two decades of the creations, stories, and convention-defying attitude that are uniquely Supreme. Featuring more than 800 stunning images, from photographers such as Larry Clark, Ari Marcopoulos, and David Sims, readers will have unparallled access to behindthe-scenes content, including the company’s highly limited products-everything from t-shirts to bicycles-and collaborationsNan Goldin, Comme de Garçons, and Nike, to name a few.
RRP £115.00
A refined take on loungewear, Ralph Lauren Polo’s robe arrives in grey marl with crisp white piping that lends a classic touch. The perfect gift for the man in your life who you are sick of seeing in those old pajamas.
RRP £35.00
A lightweight moisturiser that deeply hydrates while helping to balance oil and protect the skin’s natural moisture barrier. White Thyme, Sage and Irish Moss help clarify, hydrate and regulate oil production while Vitamin C-rich Lemon helps tone and protect for a smooth, supple finish.
RRP £195.00
Tom Wood’s creator Mona Jensen takes inspiration from the nature and lifestyle associated with her Norwegian hometown. This results in timeless pieces, constructed with functionality and longevity in mind, as displayed by the Anker slim chain necklace.
12) Birkenstock Men’s Boston Suede Mules –RRP £120.00
Birkenstocks are one of the shoes in the spotlight this season. They are on everyone’s wish list so the man in your life is bound to be excited opening these classic Boston Suede Mules on Christmas morning.
11) PS Paul Smith
Stripe Keeper Belt –
RRP £135.00
PS Paul Smith brown belt. The men’s belt is crafted from smooth leather, detailed with a rainbow striped keeper. Every man needs a belt –making this a failsafe gift for the guy who you don’t know what to get.
13) Our Legacy
RRP £390.00
This heavyweight chunky knit is an essential for every man’s winter wardrobe. The versatility means that it can be gifted to any man in the family, from your grandad to your son.
The GOMATIC 30L Travel Bag is the perfect go anywhere, do anything bag. It is made with durable, water-resistant materials and zippers. The patented strap system allows you to go from duffel to backpack carry for those times when you need more flexibility. The shoe compartment has a ventilated door with a water resistant flap allowing you to choose if you want to keep water out or allow for ventilation. Over 20 features make our 30L bag the perfect choice for everything from a day at the gym to a weekend vacation.
The GOMATIC Travel Pack was designed for everyday use and for those shorter 1-3 day trips. It’s made with durable, water-resistant materials and YKK zippers. Starting at 20L and expanding to 30L, this bag is slim but expands when you need to pack more. The patent pending strap system allows you to go from backpack to briefcase carry for those times when you need to look more professional. The full perimeter zipper, magnetic water bottle pockets, RFID safe storage, and hidden pockets are just a few of the 20+ noteworthy features that make the Travel Pack the most functional travel pack ever! On top of being packed with incredible functionality, the GOMATIC Travel Pack has a sleek minimalist design and gives you confidence for your life on the move.
Weight: 1.89kg | Capacity: 20L-30L(expanded) | Outer Dimensions: (H/W/D) 47 x 30 x 10-24 cm
Laptop Compartment: 41 x 27 x 4 cm
The GOMATIC Toiletry Bags come in two sizes; Pick the size that works best for you. Both are made with durable, waterresistant materials and zippers to ensure there are no leaks and your toiletries stay protected. An optional hanging strap and dedicated toothbrush pocket are a few of the many features that make these the most functional toiletry bags ever.
Pack more than you think is possible. Each packing cube uses a zippered compression system to condense your clothes and maximize your space by 50 percent.
The GOMATIC Laundry Bag keeps your dirty clothes organized. At your destination, expand the bag and use the hanging strap to attach it to a door knob. Once the laundry bag is full, fit it easily back in your bag, keeping your dirty clothes separate.
The GOMATIC Shirt Organizer was designed to keep your dress shirts and pants organized and to help avoid wrinkles. Using the included plastic folding guide, you can easily fold your shirts and pants to fit perfectly in your bag.
The world’s first active noise cancelling true wireless earphones that use the latest Powerfoyle™ solar cell technology to deliver an always on audio experience
Urbanista, the Swedish lifestyle audio brand, announces the launch of Urbanista Phoenix, the world’s first true wireless, active noise cancelling earphones powered by light. Following a successful partnership with Exeger to launch the Urbanista Los Angeles headphones, Phoenix advances the use of their ground-breaking Powerfoyle™ technology to a new level, with true wireless earphones that deliver an endless playtime experience which the user controls.
Priced at 129 GBP, 1499 SEK, 149 EUR, 149 USD MSRP, Phoenix boasts full compatibility with iOS and Android devices.
With Urbanista Phoenix you can experience a truly true wireless future with no need for cords or charging cables. Integrated with ground-breaking Powerfoyle™ solar cell material, the earphones’ streamlined charging case continuously recharges when exposed to all forms of outdoor or indoor light, meaning that the earphones will provide endless playtime when placed back in their case for charging and continuously exposed to light. The earphones also feature advanced hybrid active noise cancelling technology and noise reduction microphones that filter out ambient sounds, so you can enjoy music and crystal-clear calls without distractions, even when in crowded spaces.
Tuomas Lonka, Urbanista’s Brand and Marketing Director, comments: “It’s a privilege to continue on this path of innovation together with Exeger and use the latest in solar cell technology to bring ground-breaking audio products to market. Our Los Angeles selfcharging headphones were so well received by customers and consumers alike, that we knew right away that we wanted to apply this futuristic way of consuming audio to a true wireless design. Urbanista Phoenix really is a market leading product, and we are excited to see how these shape the future of our listening experiences in years to come.”
Giovanni Fili, founder and CEO of Exeger adds: “We are incredibly excited to launch the world’s first Powerfoyle-powered true wireless earphones together with Urbanista. The Los Angeles headphones set a new standard and as users around the world are treasuring not needing to charge their devices in the wall, they are craving category expansion.” Powerfoyle is the world’s only fully customisable solar cell and consequently uniquely positioned to power audio products given the extensive design requirements. Both end-users and our customers benefit immensely when a whole product line up is offered”, he continues.
Urbanista Phoenix’s true wireless design allows you to enjoy your audio wherever you are, without any restraints. You can always easily connect the earphones to your Bluetooth device of choice with the earphones’ new multipoint connectivity feature which enables you to connect Phoenix to up to two devices simultaneously. Virtually weightless, the earphones sit lightly in your ears so you can listen to music and podcasts with minimal distractions, and intuitive touch controls and intelligent voice assistance let you effortlessly take charge of your tunes while enjoying full freedom of motion.
Urbanista Phoenix is compatible with the Urbanista mobile companion app that puts you in complete control of your audio experience. The Urbanista app, available on Apple App Store and Google Play Store, gives you deep customisation options, including EQ controls to adjust the audio to meet your taste. The companion app also provides information on how to get the most out of the product’s playtime, including visual indications of solar charge levels and usage, and the option to customise the earphones controls and voice assistant.
Axel Grell, Audio Engineer for Urbanista, comments: “Phoenix advances technology to create a cutting-edge, innovative audio experience and we have worked hard to develop a sound stage to match. These earbuds are designed to deliver a crystal clear and transparent sound with a punchy bass that doesn’t overpower the mids and highs. With the ability to provide an endless audio experience, Phoenix also delivers sound that will have you listening comfortably for hours on end.”
Inspired by the breath-taking desert scenery of one of the sunniest places on earth, the earphones come in two iconic colourways, Midnight Black (black) and Desert Rose (pink), lighting up your ears with superbly radiant sound. The custom fit silicone tips provide sound isolation while securely cushioning the earphones in your ear and an IPX4 water resistance rating allows you to safely and confidently use the Phoenix earphones come rain or shine.
Read more about Urbanista Phoenix true wireless earphones and sign up for updates at https://www.urbanista.com/phoenix
Urbanista
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
• In-ear detection
• Bluetooth 5.2 version
• Urbanista mobile app compatible
• Available in Midnight Black (Black) and Desert Rose (Pink)
verton has expanded its portfolio of international partners by signing a multi-year deal with British watch brand Christopher Ward. The agreement with the UK’s leading mechanical watchmaker sees them become the Club’s Official Global Timing Partner.
Christopher Ward turned the traditional watch model on its head in 2005 by becoming the world’s first online-only premium watch brand offering hand-crafted, Swiss-made mechanical watches at previously unheard-of prices. Today they have customers in more than 100 countries and are renowned for their pioneering approach to watchmaking, including the creation of the first commercially viable mechanical watch movement from a British watch brand in over 50 years, the acclaimed Calibre SH21.
Through the partnership, Christopher Ward branding will appear on official Everton channels and assets, including on backdrops and LED screens at Goodison Park on matchdays.
They intend to embrace Everton’s unique culture by creating money-can’t-buy experiences for Evertonians and Christopher Ward fans around the world and work with the club’s awardwinning charity, Everton in the Community.
Mike France, CEO and Co-Founder of Christopher Ward said: “Becoming Everton Football Club’s first Global Timing Partner, apart from being a great honour, is a milestone for Christopher Ward in our mission to make the visceral pleasure of owning a premium mechanical watch accessible to the many – not just the few.”
“I’m acutely aware of the Club’s rich history, intensely loyal worldwide fanbase and bright future - as evidenced by the new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock – and it’s the deep-rooted commitment to their local community that convinced us this could be a partnership with a purpose beyond purely commercial benefits.”
“We look forward to playing our role in bringing exciting times to Evertonians everywhere.”
Richard Kenyon, Everton’s Director of Communications, Revenue and International Growth, said:
“It is our great pleasure to bring on board Christopher Ward as our Global Timing Partner and to link-up with such a dynamic, growing organisation.
“We’re all looking forward to supporting Christopher Ward in achieving further growth during what is set to be a hugely exciting and historic time for the Club.
“I’d like to thank my colleagues in our Partnership Team for their work in securing our first Timing Partner deal and to our friends at Christopher Ward for choosing to partner with Everton.”
We
forward to playing our role in bringing exciting times to Evertonians everywhere.
Could this be a return to geocentrism? With the new GMT Balancier Convexe, Greubel Forsey places the Earth back at the centre of its uni- verse. This new GMT calibre replaces all previ- ous GMT models and features, for the first time, its signature inclined balance wheel, as if in orbit around the Earth. A construction whose aesthetic architecture is matched only by its technical mastery and which confirms Greubel Forsey’s resolutely contemporary approach to Fine Watchmaking.
The Earth may no longer be the centre of the uni- verse, as thought by Aristotle through Copernicus, but it is at the centre of Greubel Forsey’s new GMT Balancier Convexe. The perfect titanium sphere with its continents, seas and oceans, is one of the Atelier’s most emblematic creations. It was the centrepiece of the GMT, GMT Earth, GMT Quadruple Tourbillon and GMT Sport, some of Greubel Forsey’s greatest successes to date.
Today, Greubel Forsey is dedicating a brand new calibre to the Terrestrial globe, decisively replac- ing its predecessors. It is the purest and most contemporary interpretation of the GMT compli- cation ever imagined, deeply rooted in the uni- verse of the brand as well as in Haute Horlogerie.
The Earth is showcased majestically, positioned at the very heart of an amphitheatrelike construction. Flush with the sapphire crystal, almost close enough to the surface to touch, it moves in a constant 24-hour rotation, just as the Earth rotates in real life. This amphitheatre is bordered by three rings which indicate two complementa- ry times: hours and minutes local time, as well as universal time. The 24 time zones displaying universal time are set against a black background if the time indicated is at night, and on a white background during the day time.
Local time is indicated on the two outer rings: one for the hours on a grey satin-finished ring, and minutes on a thin black outer ring. Each time indication has its own hand with a red triangular tip filled with luminescent material. These hands move on two further rings, engraved with key words dear to the Atelier, to display GMT. Finally, an off-centre display at 10 o’clock indicates a second time zone with a blue gold hand. For the caseback of the timepiece, Greubel Forsey opted to keep the disc with 24 time zones indicating the UTC time of the 24 reference cities, but with a rather appropriate modification: the UTC of Paris has been replaced by the city where Greubel Forsey has been established since its early days: La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland.
The beating heart of the timepiece, appreciated by collectors for its remarkable chronometric performance, is a spectacular sight. Once again, Greubel Forsey stuns with its level fine craft- manship. The 30° inclined balance wheel, seem- ingly suspended in mid-air, is held by a beautiful flat black polished and barrel polished steel balance wheel bridge on polished steel pillars. To its right, the small seconds, displayed with a blue gold hand completes the ensemble.
The titanium bridges, which serve as the æsthetic backdrop for this horological spectacle, are hand-finished with a steel brush and take on a frosted texture never before applied by Greubel Forsey. The delicate frosted surfaces catch the light and accentuate the globe, which remains the protagonist of the arena.
Finally, the inside of the case is polished so that it mirrors the escapement platform, the Terres- trial globe, and nearly every element visible on the dial side, thus adding incredible depth to this new construction.
This theatrical composition takes place within the signature convex case designed by Greubel Forsey. Made of titanium and with a diameter of 46.5mm around the bezel and 43.5mm around the caseband, it hugs the curve of the wrist perfectly. It also represents the major technical feat of achieving a movement that follows an imperceptible slope of just a few degrees. The sapphire crystal and satin-finished bezel follow the same curved geometry, which extends onto either a titanium bracelet or a textured rubber strap.
Greubel Forsey will only make 66 GMT Balancier Convexe timepieces: 22 per year between 2022 and 2024.
launched in 2005, the Classics Art Déco line by Frederique Constant is enjoying a harmonious growth in 2022. Its case is now slenderer, attaining new, more streamlined and precious proportions. Three new versions have been created, combining natural mother-of-pearl with diamonds. Still a very classic style, guillochée and decorated with a cabochon, the Classics Art Déco Carrée is designed for everyday use.
This timepiece is as discreet as it is long-lasting. Launched in 2005, the Classics Art Déco has always been featured among Frederique Constant’s collections since then. Going against the fashion grain, it showed the family house’s spirit of independence: although the trend was towards “oversize” and mixed watches, Frederique Constant extolled a timeless classicism. A delicate and elegant creation dedicated to women, immediately adopted for its noble appearance, it has gently evolved. With the first model in a barrel shape, a first reinterpretation in 2013 gave it an oval profile. Seven years later, in 2020, it was given a new design where a perfect circle was added to the oval outline.
It is by understanding the length of the path travelled that the stylistic leap the Classics Art Déco is now making can be measured, by featuring its first square shape. However, despite its name, “Classics Art Déco Carrée”, it cheekily plays with the proportions. As its square is not really one at all: to perfectly fit the curve of the wrist, this 15-year old design, slightly lengthens its height to reach 28 mm against a width of 20.7 mm. Perfect proportions whose subtle curvature is highlighted by fine fluting.
In its centre, an engine-turned rectangle emphasises this new profile. The finesse of its engraving is reflected in a natural mother-of-pearl heart, overlaid by two Breguet-style hands. The motion work is of the “stick” type, punctuating the edge of the mother-of-pearl and the guilloché. Each of the three versions shares twelve indexes in Roman numerals driven by a quartz movement, adjustable at three o’clock by a crown inlaid with a blue cabochon which evokes the sparkle of a sapphire. All features paying an elegant tribute to the sophisticated style of the 1920s during which the Art Déco movement was in its heyday and when linear and geometrical designs were all the rage.
A refined creation, the new Classics Art Déco Carrée will reveal the femininity of the woman whose beauty it will enhance, each of its three versions projecting a different personality. Understated and sleek, the first emphasises the polished steel, magnified by a five link “barleycorn” strap to wear in a flexible and modern way, where the term “wristwatch” takes on its full meaning.
The two other versions are worn on a black or blue leather strap whose central fastenings are punctuated with diamonds. In the first version on a black strap, this subtle jewellery is revealed gracefully and elegantly on the case, asserting a precious and unique personality and combining the best of watchmaking and jewellery.
aflagship model launched in 2005, the Alpiner Extreme Regulator Automatic is making its comeback today in the Alpina collection, in a new light. A powerful creation with separate display of the hours, minutes, and seconds, it is set inside a heavy-duty case able to withstand the most extreme conditions, as its name indicates, illustrating the brand’s mission par excellence. In 2022, the Alpiner Extreme Regulator Automatic has new lines and for the first time comes in an ultra-compact 41 mm size. Its finely sculpted dial gives it a more assertive look, with as many watchmaking thrills as emotions.
Founded in 1883 but fallen in disuse due to the quartz crisis, it was especially through the Alpiner Extreme Regulator - at that time called the Avalanche Extreme Regulator - that Alpina found its way back to the summits in the early 2000s. A passion-inducing timepiece for enthusiasts presented in 2005. An atypical creation with distinctive, powerful, and modern lines, ready to meet all challenges, in all environments and in all weathers, faithful to Alpina’s mission to create luxury sports watches able to withstand the most extreme conditions – hence its name.
The Alpiner Extreme Regulator, is a timepiece which has accompanied the brand’s revival and which still today is helping it attain a new milestone thanks to its unique look: a new more compact and more vigorous case and a dial whose colour and pattern make it unique. And especially, the return of its AL-650 calibre which drove its initial beats nearly 20 years ago.
In 2022, the Alpiner Extreme Regulator Automatic is primarily continuing the movement with a resizing of its case. The watch is now offered in a 41 mm diameter – compared to 48 mm previously. For the first time, it is perfectly conceivable for both men and women to wear their Alpiner Extreme Regulator Automatic in all situations. This 41 diameter opens up new horizons for it: all terrain and everyone!
The new Alpiner Extreme Regulator Automatic features a dial which recalls the fine engine turning of more traditional timepieces. But Alpina has taken care to conserve its DNA and it is an exclusive pattern of triangles, symbolising the Alpine peaks, which now runs over the entire dial - unlike its predecessors where these famous triangles decorated the centre only.
The superposition of triangles captures the sun’s rays to shine a specific light on the dial, thus enabling their reflections to mix and bring it life and texture. Produced in granite grey, reflecting the mountains from where Alpina comes from, this dial provides a perfect contrast with the blue-coloured hours and seconds counters over which luminescent hands turn.
This navy blue is found on the flange, the rubber grip of the crown and on the rubber textured strap. Integration of the strap, combined with the use of rubber, is a must for any adventurer. However, to allow for everyday use between two expeditions, the ergonomics of the strap has been revised to favour optimal comfort. The whole adapts perfectly to the shape of the wrist, remaining discreet without losing its character.
As for the case, the aesthetic signature of the Alpiner Extreme Regulator line, it has kept the qualities which have carved out its success. While reduced to 41 mm, the case is still as strong as ever: in steel, in a “cushion” shape, waterproof to 200 meters with a bezel with six screws spaced out in a triangle design and a crown protector at 3 o’clock balanced by a reinforcement opposite at 9 o’clock. As for the finish, the case is brushed and its corners polished, providing it with texture. Limited to 888 pieces, the Alpiner Extreme Regulator Automatic still has the time-tested AL-650 calibre, the movement which has powered it since 2005.
Regulators as such, are atypical in the watchmaking landscape. They offer a differentiated view of each of their indications. Unlike the minutes, the hours and seconds are not central but separate: the hours at 10 o’clock, the seconds at 6 o’clock. This display was initially designed to offered greater reading accuracy, with no possible risk of confusion – especially when the hands overlay each other, once an hour.
Regulators were moreover adopted as a priority by railway inspectors, in order to guarantee the accuracy of departures and arrivals when the first long-distance trains began to cross several time zones, especially in the United States.
Alpina considered that this accuracy should not remain the prerogative of a single occupation only and offered it to its primary customers: explorers and adventurers of the Alpine peaks (the origin of the brand name, Alpina). When the brand was revived in the early 21st century, the first “outdoor” regulators naturally took over this heritage, with the Avalanche Regulator model, followed by the Avalanche Regulator Extreme.
Gradually, the range was extended and renamed, taking the Alpiner name, a clear reminder of its Alpine origins. The Alpiner Regulator then joined Alpina’s prestigious Manufacture collection, thanks to the AL-950 calibre developed in-house.
Not since 2009 has Alpina’s iconic outdoor tool watch undergone such major changes: a new case, new colours, and a new dial! Most importantly, the spirit of adventure and the invitation to push your limits and scale new heights remain unchanged – as does the level of watchmaking elegance.
The latest Alpiner Extreme Automatic stands out with its new, smaller 41-millimetre case: edgier, more compact, and with a more contemporary feel. Sculpted from steel and still protected by large side reinforcements, the case is ready for adventure – and blends in with a young, dynamic urban lifestyle, too. The timepiece preserves all its signature features, including an integrated rubber strap and imposing screws, firmly
AL-525GR4AE6
Ø 41mm diameter; automatic; brushed and polished stainless steel 3-part case; green dial with triangle pattern and green rubber strap. Payment can be made in monthly instalments.
Price: €1,495.
AL-525N4AE6
Ø 41mm diameter; automatic; brushed and polished stainless steel 3-part case; navy blue dial with triangle pattern and navy blue rubber strap. Payment can be made in monthly instalments. Price: €1,495.
On the dial, Alpina cultivates its Alpine pedigree, adopting the three trendiest colours of the moment – black quartz, fir green, or horizon blue – in a real ode to nature, with a dial face featuring the triangular motif of the firm, founded in 1883.
Lovers of beautiful engineering haven’t been forgotten, either: the new Alpiner Extreme Automatic is powered by a genuine Swiss Made automatic winding caliber, visible through a sapphire caseback. It’s an iconic and characterful piece.
Tommy Hilfiger, which is owned by PVH Corp. [NYSE: PVH], announces Liverpool football star Thiago Alcantara as brand ambassador for the Fall/Winter 2022 TOMMY HILFIGER men’s watch and jewelry collection campaign launching in September across Europe. Thiago Alcantara’s ambassadorship celebrates his dedication to athletic excellence, determined optimism and social responsibility. The campaign was shot by Marco Fischer on location in northern Spain.
Son to former professional football player Mazinho, Thiago is a creative and technically gifted player for the Liverpool Premier League Club and the Spanish national team, and is highly active with the Alcantara Family Foundation whose mission it is to positively impact society.
The watch and jewelry campaign spotlights hero pieces from the men’s collection, including a vintage-racing-inspired, allpurpose sports watch. Water-resistant to 5ATM, this multifunctional timepiece (44mm) is complete with a sunray dial, stainless steel frame and rugged mesh bracelet.
The full men’s collection offers styles from sleek and minimalist, to sophisticated statement-makers. The inaugural monogram jewelry for men includes a silver rugged link bracelet and the reimagined stainless steel dog tags, both featuring the TH logo.
The Fall/Winter 2022 watch and jewelry collection is manufactured by The Movado Group Inc. under license from Tommy Hilfiger and is distributed globally through Movado’s wholly owned subsidiaries and exclusive agreements with international distributors.
Friends and followers of the brand are invited to join the conversation on social media using #TommyHilfigerWatches and @TommyHilfiger.
TOMMY HILFIGER is one of the world’s most recognized premium lifestyle brands, uplifting and inspiring consumers since 1985. The brand creates iconic style, which comes alive at the intersection of the classic and the new, co-created with people who are shaping culture around the world. TOMMY HILFIGER celebrates the essence of classic American style with a modern twist. Tommy Hilfiger offers premium quality and value to consumers worldwide under the TOMMY HILFIGER and TOMMY JEANS lifestyles, with a breadth of collections including men’s, women’s and kids’ sportswear, denim, accessories, and footwear. Tommy Hilfiger has an unwavering commitment to sustainability and inclusivity.
Global retail sales of TOMMY HILFIGER products were approximately $9.3 billion in 2021 and the brand is powered by more than 16,000 associates worldwide — present in 100 countries and more than 2,000 retail stores, including its largest global flagship store at tommy.com. PVH acquired Tommy Hilfiger in 2010 and continues to oversee a focused approach to growing the brand’s worldwide relevance, presence, and long term growth.
PVH is the growth platform for Calvin Klein and TOMMY HILFIGER. Through driving brand strength and relevance, we are connecting our global, iconic brands closer to where the consumer is going than ever before, today and with future generations. Guided by our values and enabled by our scale and global reach, we are driving fashion forward for good, as one team with one vision and one plan. That’s the Power of Us, that’s the Power of PVH+.
Movado Group, Inc. designs, sources, and distributes MOVADO, MVMT, OLIVIA BURTON, EBEL, CONCORD, COACH, TOMMY HILFIGER, HUGO BOSS, LACOSTE, and SCUDERIA FERRARI watches worldwide, and operates Movado Company Stores in the United States and Canada.
A slim & functional phone stand and grip, which clicks into place for ever yday use. CLCKR Stands By You.
This villa is located at the picturesque village of agios stefanos and only 2km from the nearest beach. Fully modern both in architecture and amenities, the 6 bedroom residence sits on a lush hillside with uninterrupted vistas that extend over the ionian sea and all the way to the mountainous landscape of albania. taking advantage of its position and views, the villa boasts comfortable terraces that are lavishly equipped for outdoor living. The outdoor arrangements include a generous lounge area, a shaded dining area and an inviting swimming pool, all with sweeping views over the sea and the port of agios stefanos.
The interior echoes the modern lines of the exterior. The living areas are light-filled and clean-lined, outfitted with modern furniture in neutral tones. The sea-facing part of the house is pierced by large sliding doors that connect the rooms to the seascape and let the sunlight in. The bedrooms are intimate in size and minimal in decorations to create a relaxing atmosphere and bring focus to the landscape views that are framed by the windows. The guests of the villa can enjoy freshly cut products from the owner’s organic gardens.
For the season of 2023 – Villa Daniela has a starting rate of 10,000 euros per week thegreekvillas.com/destinations/corfu-villas/san-stefano/daniela thegreekvillas.com
welcome to The Greek villas, Greece’s leading luxury rental agency. with more than 650 properties in the most sought-after locations. we offer an extensive list of services and are dedicated to creating a stress-free vacation experience.
Founded in 2010 by vasilis and anezina Pandi, The Greek villas is a family-run business that draws on more than thirty years of leadership experience delivering the ultimate luxury experience for travellers.
Headquartered in athens, the company now boasts an extensive collection of more than 650 exquisite villas across mainland Greece and 34 islands. a robust portfolio that ranges from charming beach villas to glamorous mansions in Greece’s dreamiest destinations.
at The Greek villas, we pair the luxuries and comforts of a top hotel with the freedom of feeling at home. Each of our listings has been carefully inspected to make sure it complies with our rigorous list of requirements. The quality of the linens, the fluffiness of the towels, the firmness of the mattress, the complimentary toiletries, the electrical appliances, the wi-fi signal, and the sound system – when vetting a home, no detail is too trivial. to top that off, we also provide 24/7 concierge service and invaluable information on each destination. we will provide customized itineraries with tips and advice based on your exact needs and your ideal vacation. including the best beaches, gastronomical must-try meals, hidden architectural gems you can visit, and many more.
www.thegreekvillas.com
When I look back on our trip to Villa Daniela there are three words that spring to mind; comfort, luxury and enjoyment. The Villa Daniela, part of The Greek Villa's portfolio provided my family and I with the most enjoyable setting for a summer trip jam packed with happy memories.
The villa itself had everything needed for a family holiday, from size to privacy, through to facilities and standards, it really did tick every box.
With an onsite chef, Foivos and his assistant Thanos we were provided with a variety of delicious and nutritious meals at breakfast, lunch and dinner. This service made for a wonderful experience and allowed us as a family to bond over quality and private meals. Assistants Tila and Loula also ensured that everything was perfect throughout the villa during our stay.
Whilst we had the option of dining at the Villa, we also found a superb array of local restaurants nearby which offered a balance and variety to our dining options every day.
When it comes to the perfect family holiday, you simply cannot go wrong with The Greek Villas. Their attention to detail, standards that they uphold and genuine care makes it a great choice for your next family break and one that you must simply experience for yourself.
ituated in the eastern belt of the Scottish Lowlands, the SCHLOSS Roxburghe Hotel is an elegant country house, boasting a wealth of luxurious rooms, quality amenities, and facilitating engaging excursions and experiences. A tour-standard golf course, which peaks and troughs with the natural movement of the land, also lies in wait.
A little more than four miles south-east of the quaint market town of Kelso, the Roxburghe is in reach of a host of local attractions, including Kelso Abbey, a twelfth-century monastery initially occupied by French monks, and the impressively preserved Floor Castle, constructed over three hundred years ago. Kelso itself as a jewel of the Scottish borders, serving as a picturesque meeting point for the Tweed and Teviot Rivers.
The SCHLOSS Roxburghe resort is roughly equidistant between Edinburgh
and Newcastle, with just over an hour’s drive to either city destination. However, given the raft of activities and pursuits on offer, both inside and outside this property’s majestic grounds, you’ll be unlikely to find time to venture elsewhere! Within the parameters of the complex, you’ll be able to indulge in fine dining, sample a range of country sports, and attempt to successfully navigate the internationally-renowned Roxburghe Golf Course. Further afield from Kelso, you have the rugged North Sea coastline located a mere twenty-five miles away, and plenty of scenic walking routes throughout the encompassing county of Roxburghshire.
The hotel is imminently due to proceed with an ambitious expansion plan, which will serve to increase its accommodation portfolio, install further hospitality options, and create a purpose-built, first in class, spa facility.
The main building’s modest size offers a deceptive view of the hotel’s total acreage, with spacious grounds enveloping waterways, woodland patches, sprawling gardens, and even a carefully positioned railway viaduct.
This historic property was previously owned by the Duke of Roxburghe, and you can still see it’s aristocratic imprint to this present day. However, after a colossal refurbishment programme executed in 2019, the site is now laces with a much more contemporary feel, and carries the classic meets modern mantle with effortless ease. So often, this balancing act can undermine the ambience of a venue, but the Roxburghe hotel expertly protects its traditional roots, whilst embracing current styles with open arms. High ceilings and premium soft furnishings give an eye-catching infusion of old and new, whilst a consistent tapestry of Scottish tartans, prints, and native artwork gives the hotel a distinctly local identity.
The site is equipped with 20 delightful rooms and suites, each reflecting the rural and rustic beauty of the lands which surround them. Striking, woodland colours are used to emit a countryside glow, and ornate, re-mastered fourposter beds create an opulent yet inviting location to lay your head. In the coming months, these stunning residences will be joined by another 58 bedrooms, almost trebling the residential capacity of this idyllic Lowlands hideaway. Please also note that dogs are welcomed at the Roxburghe, providing they behave as well as their owners!
A flawlessly crafted, wood-panelled Drawing Room provides a refined experience for those enjoying the hotel’s sublime Afternoon Tea proposition, whilst the State Room Lounge, with its coveted views of Roxburghe’s sweeping gardens and the wilderness beyond, offers guests a tipple on the terrace, or a convivial drink next to a roaring fire.
Alternatively, the Spike Bar is on-hand to cater for those returning to the Clubhouse after a long day on the course, with alcoholic refreshments, light bites, and classic pub lunches available to golfers in need of a refuel – however they played!
The ‘Sunlaws’ restaurant, aptly named after a village positioned on the northern edge of the Roxburghe estate, offers guests a sumptuous a lar carte menu, with many of the cooking ingredients used cultivated directly on-site. By handpicking the freshest produce from lands within walking distance of its kitchen, the Sunlaws produces inspiring, seasonally relevant cuisine, which consistently bowls over guests and local residents alike. An extensive, international wine list enables diners to complement these gastronomic masterpieces with the perfect plonk. Soon, the brand-new Charlies restaurant will add another culinary dimension to the hotel’s hospitality offering, with its intriguing intention to land a ‘Scottish bistronomy’ style cuisine already starting to draw significant attention.
If you’re in the mood for slightly more traditional fayre, then the resorts Bar 1745 will keep you sufficiently fed and watered at all stages throughout the day. With a library-style layout, dramatic open fireplaces, and an array of cosy yet stylish furniture, the bar comfortably accommodates both relaxed dining and special occasions drinks. So, whether you’re looking to refresh themselves with either a hearty meal or afternoon snack, or keen to sample the delicately concocted mixtures present on an extravagant cocktail list, Bar 1745 will undoubtedly manage to project the right vibe for your specific visit.
The course’s iconic hole, ‘The Viaduct’, is a challenging Par 5 stretch which incorporates an elevated tee position rising from the banks of the River Teviot, and a historic, Victorian viaduct which casts its shadow over a strategicallypositioned green. Sam Torrance, one of Scotland’s most-celebrated golfers, who steered Europe to Ryder Cup glory on home soil back in 2002, has remarked that ‘The Viaduct’ is his, ‘favourite 14th tee in Scotland’.
Although the Roxburghe Championship Course presents some tricky hazards and testing lies, a wide selection of tee positions, which opens up a bandwidth of 1,500 yards between beginner and advanced course lengths, invites players of all capability and experience levels to try their hand.
The SCHLOSS Roxburghe makes full use of its vast and glorious surroundings to facilitate a rich variance of outdoor pursuits.
Living up to its country-esque billing, the resort presides over a set of comprehensive shooting packages and event days, offering both guided shoots accompanied with a personal pointing dog, or vehicle-supported shoots, targeting the varied species of on-site wildlife. Alternatively, why not take advantage of the local riverways, and immerse yourself in an in-house fly-fishing tuition course. The esteemed ‘Fly Fishing Centre’, sponsored by former World Team Spey Casting champion, Eoin Fairgrieve, will teach you all the techniques you need to master in order to capture the Tweed and Teviot’s bustling population of Atlantic Salmon, and Sea & Brown Trout.
For a more tranquil experience, the hotel delivers bird watching programmes and Segway discovery rides, and there’s also an abundance of walking routes to explore. The hotel’s plan to build a market-leading spa & wellbeing facility will be supported by the inclusion of a 600sqm outdoor heated pool, therefore swimming will undoubtedly shortly be added to this growing list of enjoyable pastimes.
If venturing outside the complex, the rolling hills of the Scottish Lowlands make ideal fodder for both high-octane and more conventional leisure activities. The local rivers stage a plethora of water sports, and the spectacular crags and coves of the Scottish countryside make for enticing hikes and climbs. If you’d prefer to live life a little more in the fast lane, the Roxburghe can help you to co-ordinate an adrenalin-packed visit, with bungee jumping, scuba diving, and white-water rafting in operation close by.
Given its inviting warmth and elegant finishes, the hotel is a regular hotspot for a number of celebrations and corporate events, including weddings, private functions, Christmas parties, team-building days, and product launches. ‘The Conservatory’ building is a particular client favourite, with a vintage, Victorian influence adding poise and prestige to this external, glass-fronted building. All conference spaces are fitted with AV technology and appropriate IT equipment, with a range of supplementary catering options at the event holder’s disposal.
The site also attracts automotive enthusiasts, with high-performance car clubs often using the hotel as a meeting point, before heading out onto the winding, picturesque country roads of south-east Scotland.
Please note that all rooms come equipped with underfloor bathroom heating, flat-screen TV, safe, and mini-bar.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing retreat, burrowed deep into the rustic charm of the Scottish borders, or equally eager to pick embrace a wealth of eclectic activities, experiences, and outdoor pursuits, the SCHLOSS Roxburghe Hotel affords guests the perfect platform to get the very most out of their stay.
A captivating golf course, a series of uniquely composed bars and restaurants, and an extraordinary selection of countryside trails and activities will satisfy anyone who graces its enormous, yet impeccable, estate. This truly is a heavenly slice of Lowland Scotland.
Situated just 10km south of the historically significant Old Rhodes Town, the Amada Colossos sits picturesquely in the north-east reaches of Rhodes island. Given its location, in the south-eastern extremes of Greek territory, just off the coast of Turkey and within a modest travelling distance from northern Egyptian ports, Rhodes has traditionally been perceived as a continental intersection. As a consequence, the island has presided over a melting pot of diverse cultures, philosophies, and customs, a product of both nearby lands and a long-established stream of travellers, scholars and entrepreneurs who have arrived on its shores.
Through these dynamics, a rich, distinctive, Rhodian identity has emerged, which undoubtedly influences the look and feel of the Amada Colossos hotel. Nevertheless, the resort is perhaps better-known for having a more contemporary approach, affording slick, monochrome designs and clean,
modern décor. A secluded estate, complemented by an abundance of Mediterranean flora and fauna, and equipped with a private 430m-length beach, the Amada Colossos is a perfect paradise set against the backdrop of the Aegean Sea. With dedicated amenities segregated for both adults and families, and a three-tiered guest experience programme, this property facilitates different types of vacation dependent on the nature of visit, personal preference, and targeted expenditure.
As referenced, the Amada resort offers three wellcrafted guest packages, ranked from the entry-point Gold programme, all the way through to the unrivalled comfort and luxury afforded by the Elite experience.
The package selected determines the customer’s key elements of their stay, including accommodation type, room features, restaurant accessibility, and VIP perks and treatments. However, whether a Gold, Diamond, or Elite customer, visitors will be able to enjoy a resort which boasts stunning grounds, a delightful Mediterranean ambience, and an extensive raft of inviting and well-maintained facilities.
Gold package customers can choose between a series of suites, which all preside over beautiful furnishings, modern appliances, and a dedicated, private terrace. Dependent on whether staying in a side sea or hill view room, residents can take in sweeping scenic views of either crystal blue waters, or the rolling hills of the Rhodian countryside.
Guests will have access to breakfast, lunch and dinner at the resort’s main restaurant, where a cosmopolitan selection of high-quality dishes await. Furthermore, if staying for a week or longer, visitors can secure a reservation in each of Amada’s three regionally-themed restaurants, where a-la-carte menus showcase exquisite culinary combinations inspired by Greece, Italy, and Asia. Should Goldlevel customers begin to get peckish through the day, a host of snacks and light bites are available from a number of locations, most of which are cited in proximity to the hotel’s main pool facility.
Complimentary beach and pool towels are routinely replenished, allowing guests to easily take advantage of the hotel’s ringfenced stretch of coastal golden sands, or one of its several spacious pool areas. Each room comes fitted with free Wi-fi access and Satellite TV, and all beds are enhanced by comforting, orthopaedic mattresses.
Diamond guests enjoy a number of additional privileges to further sample the resort’s premium facilities. There is no restriction to the hotel’s toptier, specialty restaurants, and therefore customers can opt for Greek, Italian, or Asian cuisine, dependent on their pallet or daily preference. A segmented space within the already privatised beach area is also afforded, where guests can soak up some rays in total tranquillity.
On arrival and indeed throughout the duration of their holiday, diamond customers are able to visit the hotel’s Executive Lounge. Here, they’ll be able to utilize an exclusive check-in service, and drop in for breakfast, snacks or drinks. The lounge generates a casual yet sophisticated environment, and is therefore an ideal spot for evening hang-outs, pre-dinner conversation, or a slightly more refined morning meal.
Diamond visitors will reside in one of the resort’s junior suites, each facilitating majestic sea views, and a personalized pillow menu.
For an unparalleled Amada Colossus experience, prospective guests are encouraged to register for the aspirational Elite package, with a deluxe range of treats, enhancements, and bespoke services available.
From the welcoming glass of fizz on entry, to the complimentary gift on exit, Elite customers are exposed to a raft of benefits and additional conveniences, and are therefore able to exploit the full wealth of facilities this remarkable estate has to offer. There are three bandings within the Elite package, offering guests the opportunity to indulge even deeper into the resorts’ embarrassment of amenity riches.
The first upgrade, earmarked for guests staying in a Sea View Deluxe Suite, builds on the entry-level Elite services provided. In addition to some subtle, additional accommodation features, guests will receive a free 30-minute massage treatment, and also be eligible to use a Grand Gazebo station located at the heart of the resort’s private beach.
For the ultimate stay, the top-tier Elite package offers an unrivalled, tailor-made guest experience. As a welcoming bottle of champagne chills in-suite, customers will be introduced to their personalised guest relations officer, who is positioned to attend to all queries and requests. Accommodation comes in the shape of the luxurious two-storey ‘Amada Villa’, rigorously maintained by a dedicated team of housekeeping assistants. In tandem with each and every privilege encompassed in all other packages, this leading programme also includes an incredibly intimate beachfront candlelit dinner for two.
Those registered to the core Elite programme will reside in a Sea View Executive Suite. Each room comes with a Nespresso machine, a routinely replenished mini bar, and daily linen replacement service as standard. Guests will also be greeted with a splendid array of locally-sourced, seasonal fruit on arrival. The complex’s serene spa & wellness centre can be visited on three occasions for no additional cost, with Elite customers permitted to enter all parts of the facility, inclusive of the Sauna, Hammam, and main Spa. As an added perk, an exclusive airport transfer service is also facilitated, significantly reducing the stresses of connecting travel.
Italian Restaurant: This restaurant is inspired by the rustic home cooking of the Italian countryside, with its hallmark simplistic approach, and access to rich, quality ingredients. Guests can select from a vast array of Italian wines to complement their meals, and dig into pizzas prepared in a wood-burning oven.
There are three poolside bars positioned for guest convenience, each offering a variety of alcoholic and soft drinks, and enticing snacks and nibbles. Within this group is a health-conscious outlet, which ranges exceptionally nutritious food-on-the-go, and a Mediterranean-infused healthy drinks list.
Greek Kafenio: A traditional Greek coffee house with a distinctly Rhodian blend, the resort’s Kafenio is a popular hotspot for those looking to enjoy an artisan coffee in an unquestionably localized setting. Braver guests may be willing to try the particularly intriguing native delicacy of ‘Tsipouro’, also known as firewater!
Many of the resorts distinguished bars and restaurants have been alluded to in the previous section, but a more dedicated lowdown of each hospitality venue is provided below.
‘Main’ Restaurant: Guests can enjoy a mixture of classic, international meals and local Greek delicacies. Chefs perform in full view of diners in dedicated show-cooking areas, and the venue presides over both indoor and alfresco eating options.
Asian Restaurant: For an Eastern-infused menu, guests can head to the reservationonly Asian restaurant. Ideal for those on vegan and vegetarian diets.
Greek Taverna: Set amidst the backdrop of the hotel’s adjacent coastline, the Taverna stages a truly authentic gastronomic experience. Here, customers can acutely grasp the style and flavours of local Greek fayre. The restaurant is particularly famed for its seafood cuisine, with lobster, squid and octopi dishes all executed to perfection.
Lobby Bar: This venue is ideal for those eager to unwind after a lengthy pool or beach day, perhaps treating themselves to an expertly-crafted cocktail whilst being serenaded by live piano performances. A chilled, convivial atmosphere permeates this contemporary bar space.
There are also two destination bars, situated next to two of the resorts’ key attractions. The beach bar serves to quench the thirst of sun dwellers, whilst the amphitheatre bar arms guests with their favourite tipple as they take in the delights of the evening’s entertainment, which includes cinema screenings, variety shows, and quiz nights.
The hotel’s state-of-the-art gym contains all of the modern equipment you would expect from a resort of this calibre, with treadmills, cycling machines, and loose weights provided by esteemed fitness brand StarTrac. A team of highly-trained experts hold yoga classes on the hotel yawn, aquagym sessions in the pool, and a series of dance and cardio-themed classes. There is also the option of engaging in more conventional sports, with football, table tennis, and beach volleyball also routinely offered.
The aforementioned in-house Spa catalogues a unique blend of holistic therapies, sensual treatments, and cosmetic services. Alternatively, guests can relax and recuperate in the sauna, Jacuzzi, or public Hammam.
For those a little more inclined to live life in the fast lane, the hotel also sponsors an intensive programme of water sports, with paddle boarding, paragliding, and water-skiing just some of the activities available. An in-built waterpark, complete with a host of slides and action zones, adds fun and frivolity, whilst a 140m-length premier pool, layered with restricted adult, ball game, and swimming areas, ensures every pool visitor is well-accommodated.
The complex also has an integrated shopping mall, with a store mix that satisfies everyday purchases, all the way through to stylish garments for the discerning fashionista. Indeed, a well-stocked supermarket allows guests to effortlessly acquire essential commodities on-site, whilst a number of independent boutiques offer the latest beachwear, leather goods, and Greek and Italian designer apparel.
It’s worth noting that the hotel also has a resident wedding planner, not to mention epic, sprawling grounds fit for any marriage ceremony. Honeymoon packages are also available.
Those keen to sample a contemporary, pristine setting, infused with an unmistakable Greek influence, need look no further than the prestigious Amada Colossos resort. Basking in the Rhodian coastline, this luxury property oozes class and sophistication, whilst still holding true to its value of offering superb guest facilities within a family-friendly environment.
Whether in the mood for a calming, peaceful visit in this quiet corner of the Greek islands’ expanse, or a faster-paced vacation utilizing the more energy-inducing amenities this wonderful resort has to offer, the Amada Colossos is an ideal staging point for every type of stay. Equally, guests can opt for a standard package, embracing the hotel’s Mediterranean charm in relative modesty, or choose a more lavish form of residency, indulging in a multitude of privileged experiences and services. Indeed, the Amada Colossos offers recreation, respite, and Rhodian resplendence, all within a stone’s throw of one of the cultural epicentres of Europe.
A Greek paradise laced with quality, authenticity, and a relentless dedication to the guest experience.
Positioned on the picturesque Hebridean island of Islay, the Machrie Hotel & Golf Links is a luxurious guest house, boasting premium facilities, top-notch hospitality services, and a Championship standard 18-hole links course. The complex is easily accessible, situated just two short miles from Islay airport, and a mere tenminute drive from Port Ellen ferry terminal. Despite its convenient location in close proximity to travel hubs, the Machrie Hotel feels like a secluded oasis, set in the rugged beauty of the western Scottish isles.
There are no less than nine distilleries on the island, with four of these situated within ten miles of the resort. There is also a seven-mile stretch of sandy beach coastline on the doorstep of the hotel. The stunning scenery which envelopes the island can be witnessed from various vantage points within the hotel grounds, making The Machrie an ideal destination for those looking to grasp the mystical aura of this beautiful island.
In 2018, the hotel engaged in a huge redevelopment plan, extending its accommodation offer and adjusting the layout of its iconic golf course. As a consequence of this project, the Machrie has enhanced its service proposition, become more spacious, and injected some contemporary touches into its traditional framework. Therefore, the hotel is now a perfect choice for any visitor wanting to reside in a flawless abode whilst experiencing the rustic charm of Islay.
There are a total of 47 rooms and lodges at the Machrie, with each harbouring clean, crisp décor and comfortable soft furnishings. All rooms are kitted-out with user-friendly modern appliances, and command dramatic views of the islands encapsulating flora and fauna. Guests can select any of seven styles of accommodation, ranging from indulgent suites through to more modest, yet equally satisfying, dwellings.
The Ben Hogan Duplex, the resorts most coveted room, affords a glimpse of distant landscapes, with a private terrace facilitating sights of the hotel’s full links course and the Atlantic Ocean beyond. The suite encompasses 70 sqm of pure luxury, and is complete with king-size beds, a kitchenette, and domineering floor to ceiling windows.
On the perimeter of the golf course, a set of country lodges accommodate larger groups and families, providing that extra edge of sanctuary in a more withdrawn location. These ground floor residences are all equipped with open patio areas, merging with the course’s emboldened boundaries and providing great spaces for alfresco dining.
The Islay Suite provides pure elegance for the more discerning traveller, with engrossing views of the island’s rolling hills which can be seen from the comfort of an inviting four-poster bed. The room sits proudly within the resorts main building, and is perfect for couples on romantic getaways.
Outside of these specific sites, there are further three categories of accommodation, comprising of ‘Comfy Luxe’, ‘Comfy’, and ‘Cosy’ rooms, with each facilitating relaxing and peaceful stays.
The Machrie’s outstanding ‘18’ restaurant presents a menu cultivated from exclusively Scottish fayre, with all ingredients sourced from native farms, lakes, and skies. A team of passionate chefs regularly update offerings to complement seasonal availability, and food is produced with care, attention, and poise. Diners are treated to the theatrical landscapes of Laggan Bay, visible through a strategically placed vaulted glass ceiling. As the dishes are carted away, guests can retreat to the restaurant bar, where they’ll be greeted by a seemingly endless selection of bespoke Islay malts, the ideal complement to an exquisite culinary experience.
Three different Afternoon Tea options are available in ‘The Snug’, a quiet space tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the adjacent lounges. Guests can select either Classic Cream or Traditional Afternoon Tea sessions, or, if in the mood, opt for the Savoury proposition, which comes accompanied with a ‘wee dram’ to wash down an array of delicate sandwiches and scones.
For daytime bites, the Courtyard and Stag Lounges preside over a convivial atmosphere, with roaring fires and relaxing furniture allowing friends and family to relax and unwind. The Stag Lounge’s south-facing retractable windows holds the sun for extended periods, whilst the Courtyard Lounge peers out to the resort’s enchanting grounds and onwards the Ocean.
There’s plenty of facilities to enjoy within the hotel, but also a range of available experiences within the immediate vicinity. If guests are eager to venture further afield, the delights of Islay Woollen Mill and Quilters are less than fifteen miles north of the resort, whilst Islay-inspired pottery pieces can be found in Persabus, located in the north-east of the island, just ahead of the crossing to Jura.
There are endless breath-taking rural expanses to discover, with craggy coastlines, woodland reserves, and calming beachfronts making Islay a walker’s haven. If visitors are keen to try a slightly different pursuit, the island has a dedicated fly-fishing centre, where experts impart their wisdom on how to catch one of Islay’s most prevalent species of wildlife; the sea trout.
GolfAn awe-inspiring, majestic links course meanders round the resort, famed for its creative course layout and beguiling visual backdrops. The original course shaped the land for over 127 years, with Willie Campbell’s devilish designs putting several generations through their paces, with numerous ‘blind’ shots, tricky pin placements, and disruptive hazards peppered throughout. As part of the resort’s general modernization programme in 2018, revered course architect DJ Russel re-calibrated some parts of The Machrie links, but preserved all the charm and cheekiness that Campbell’s course so effectively procured.
Now, a larger, 7,000-yard course, with emboldened fairways that offer more practical routes to the pin, pervades the resorts landscape, with all the delicate qualities of the original course still inplay. For those looking to enjoy a game in ultimate tranquillity and solitude, the Machrie is an unrivalled golfing paradise.
However, there’s a raft of activities also available within the Machrie complex. Islay’s only existing Spa is stationed within the resort, facilitating a range of treatments to support wellness and rejuvenation. The PureGray Spa’s comprehensively trained team use organic seaweed products in their applications, engineered by Scottish skincare specialists ‘ishga’
For those looking for a faster pace, a 24-hour gym is available, harnessing all of the equipment you would expect from a state-of-the-art leisure facility. This includes yoga spaces, private changing areas, and secure lockers.
There’s an abundance of meeting rooms and seating spaces available, primed to host a variance of activities and events. In the Kidalton Room, corporate teams can discuss business matters in a professional, enclosed environment, taking advantage of a 55” screen and the freshness of a room which encourages a wealth of natural light.
The Screening Room, which incidentally doubles-up as a guest cinema, offers unrivalled presentation capability, with users able to project slide shows onto a 145” screen, and bring video reels to life with Dolby Digital surround-sound.
For a semi-private meeting, perhaps to reward & recognize team achievements, The Tower provides a perfect venue. Linked to the ‘18’ restaurant, the room carries a distinctive buzz and ambience, without compromising the formalities of the event. Audiences can also take in the links course from an inviting bay window. For a more relaxed affair, the Courtyard offers a vast, open-air location which creates a friendly, low-key atmosphere in the summer months.
The Machrie Hotel and Golf Links taps into the distinctive, unspoiled beauty of the landscapes which wrap around it, presiding over a resort that oozes class and character. It’s diverse selection of suites, rooms, and lodgings afford both comfort and tranquillity, whilst a Scottish gastronomical masterclass awaits in its restaurants and lounges.
Furthermore, an exemplary Championship course, ranked as one of the Top 20 destinations in perhaps golfing’s most reputable country on the planet, flows elegantly through its grounds. If golf isn’t perhaps their thing, guests can roam free on an island blessed with unparalleled stretches of stunning coastline and countryside.
This Hebridean retreat is the genuine article, encompassing everything anyone could possibly want from a mini-break; serenity, seclusion, and sophistication.
Located in the southern banks of the world-renowned Loch Lomond, the Cameron House Resort exudes luxury and intrigue. Tucked away roughly 35 miles north-west of Glasgow, and a short, ten-minute drive from Dumbarton, Cameron House offers a last staging post of the Scottish Lowlands, greeting travellers into the rugged and dramatic beauty of the Highlands.
The Hotel & Golf resort is set amidst the sprawling hills of the Trossachs National Park, with its main, seventeenth-century building quarters previously owned by nobility. Entrenched in the fabric of this picturesque part of the world is its rich array of challenging, top-level golf courses, providing an unrivalled setting for players to test their wits against the trickiest of holes. Indeed, within the hotel’s 400-odd acres of land, two devilish courses are positioned, each with their own unique set of natural and strategically-positioned hazards. However, regardless of your score, you’re guaranteed to be in awe-inspired by the stunning backdrops these two courses encompass.
Cameron House’s location lends itself to easy access to a range of outdoor pursuits, with visitor’s able exploit the vast riches this belt of Scottish countryside has to offer. Whether it’s water sports, climbing, cycling, or falconry that resonates most, you’ll be able to engage in your favourite leisure activities, and do so in some of the most majestic landscapes known to man.
Boasting 255 premium bedrooms, suites, cottages, and apartments, Cameron House is certainly not short of ample accommodation choices. Guests can opt for indulgence or modesty, choose to be pampered or cater independently, and enjoy either regal or rustic surroundings.
Each residence offers its own vibrant experience, but all embody a distinct local identity, with the raw, unmistakable charm of Scotland permeating through each dwelling.
If you do choose to stay in the hotel’s most luxurious suites, you’ll not only be welcomed by a flawlessly furnished room, designed by maverick and highly-respected Glaswegian textile outfit Timorous Beasties, you’ll also receive a bespoke guest service which leaves no stone unturned. Fancy a woodland walk into the heart of the Trossachs? Pick up a complimentary pair of Hunter’s wellies before you head out. Attending an upmarket event later that evening? Take advantage of the pressing and shoe polishing service. A little peckish before dinner time? A gourmet selection of pre-dinner canapes will satisfy your appetite until your evening meal. A dedicated chauffeur, prepared to travel within a 75-mile radius of the resort, will also be readily available at your request. A total of fourteen of these top-tier suites are situated within the complex’s ‘Auld House’, and also facilitate breathtaking views of Loch Lomond from a private terrace vantage point.
All rooms, irrespective of accommodation type, are kitted with striking pieces of local artwork, capturing the pastoral elegance of the lands outside. Each have a certain poise and class, and come fitted with those creature comforts that make all the difference. So, whether you want to nod off whilst watching a little Sky TV, or warm yourself after a chilly wander with a coffee brewed from a Nespresso machine, you’ll be able to embrace home’s simple pleasures whilst away.
The resort caters for all pallets, moods, and occasions, with seven integrated hospitality venues offering everything from traditional dishes and familiar drinks brands, all the way through to exquisite fine dining and rare malts. Whether keen for a quick bite on the move, or ready to step into a whirlwind gastronomic experience, you can be confident your culinary cravings will be met with aplomb.
For a slice of traditional Scottish fayre, head to the Cameron Grill, a restaurant which encapsulates the very heart and soul of the resort. Look out onto the calming waters of Loch Lomond as you dine, and tuck into fresh, seasonal produce sourced on the doorstep of the hotel grounds. If you’d prefer a more casual affair, perhaps the loch-inspired Boat House restaurant will take your fancy, with an array of seafood platters and light bites on offer. The Clubhouse @ Cameron has a similar low-key vibe, with classic, heartwarming meals in no short supply, and Afternoon Tea bookings also available. There’s also the recently installed ‘Tavern’, nestled in the resorts newly-renovated leisure facility, which is a perfect spot for comforting repasts whilst socialising.
An exciting addition is also due to land in the coming season, with the newly-constructed ‘Tamburrini & Wishart’ restaurant already serving taster courses to whet the appetite for launch. Only the finest, most sought-after local ingredients will be procured in order to produce imaginative, high-quality dishes that would slide effortlessly into a Michelinstar menu. Furthermore, an in-house sommelier serves to ensure your wine choice pulls out all the key flavours of your edible masterpiece.
After you’ve sampled Cameron House’s signature food, it’s time to frequent one of two (or perhaps both!) dedicated on-site bars, designed to deliver innovative spaces for you to indulge in your favourite tipple. The Lobby Bar, with its cubby holes and secluded seating areas, allow couples to get lost in each other’s company, whilst an open floorplan still gives it that social, interactive feel. Here, you’ll be at the mercy of a talented group of mixologists, on hand to tempt you with technically-crafted, contemporary drink choices. However, if you’d prefer a slightly less glamourous but equally as appealing setting, why not try the Great Scots Bar, where a more traditional environment awaits. The walls are clad with epic depictions of Scottish folklore heroes, whilst relaxed, comfy furniture invites you to immerse yourself in the convivial atmosphere. There’s also a colossal collection of over 300 locally-fermented whiskies, further enhancing the hotel’s affinity with its native surroundings.
It would be regretful to visit this property without picking up the clubs and heading to the resorts’ two pristine golf courses, positioned within the hotel’s seemingly never-ending estate. The ‘Carrick’, and aptly named ‘Wee Demon’ courses both present players with a series of testing hazards, whether that be water, sand, or otherwise, and a set of exhilarating views which are sure to distract even the most focused of golfers.
The ‘Carrick’ is strategically divided to accommodate nine holes on the ‘low’ road, reflective of typical designs associated with Lowland venues, and nine tees on the ‘high’ road, inspired by Highland courses to the north of the resort. This stretch of eighteen glorious holes incorporates what has to be one of the world’s most iconic course obstacles: Loch Lomond itself. Given its stature and scenic attraction, the ‘Carrick’ has hosted a number of prestigious competitions, including the Ladies Scottish Open, the PGA Cup, and the PGA’s EuroPro Tour. Competitive tee positions see players having to navigate a gruelling 7,000-yard playing space, with a par round of 71 challenging even the most decorated of professionals. Nevertheless, should you decide to take on this links course using one of the available sets of slightly more conveniently placed starting positions, you’ll still be able to experience all the merits of this outstanding, international venue.
Conversely, the ‘Wee Demon’ is a little more devious in its layout, positioning subtle risks and concealing its difficulty in its more modest course distance. Tight holes, fast greens, and cleverly dropped hazards make for intriguing rounds for seasoned players looking to critique their short game, whilst the reduced total yardage gives the course a sense of approachability for junior’s just starting out. Regardless of your capability level, you’ll relish the dips, lumps, and bumps of this cheeky nine-hole course.
Whether utilizing the plethora of available on-site facilities, or making a beeline for the mystical Scottish wilderness, you’ll be able to engage in a number of leisure pursuits during your stay at Cameron House.
Within the hotel’s extensive grounds, you’ll find a number of amenities and attractions, all easily accessible and professionally maintained. A brandspanking new, state-of-the-art leisure centre is equipped with two standard pools, one earmarked for family fun and the other for more fitness-orientated endeavours, a bubble pool, steam room, and sauna. For fitness fans, a modern gym harbouring the latest in technical sporting equipment is flanked by two activity studios, both fitted with large-format screens to help motivate users and capture performance data.
In the spa, guests can enjoy any of seventeen private treatments, and try-out Thermal and Hydro recuperation experiences. Head upstairs, and discover the plush, rooftop infinity pool, looking directly out onto the resort gardens. And, as if you didn’t already feel pampered enough, you can still pitch up to the ‘Café Spa’, where you’ll be able to sip champagne, nibble on healthy aperitives, and gently unwind with loved ones.
If you do decide to venture out of the complex, you’ll have the run of one of Europe’s most famous protected national parks. Cameron House’s dedicated team of on-site activity planners will help build an itinerary tailored to you, providing advice and guidance on a myriad of local adventures. If it’s high-octane thrills you’re after, why not brave a speed boat tour, or jump on a sea plane excursion, which transports you around the jagged peaks and sweeping coves of the delightful Trossachs landscape. Nevertheless, if you’re keen to keep your feet firmly on the ground (or in a less highpowered vehicle), activities such as clay pigeon shooting, falconry, kayaking, and canoeing all lay in wait. Clearly, given its open and untapped location, more conventional pursuits are also championed in the area, with scenic walking routes, outdoor climbing schools, and bike hire centres all available nearby.
It’s worth noting that Cameron House has spaces to host weddings, corporate events, and team-building days, and also contains a purpose-built cinema reserved for its VIP residents. An impressive, 234-berth marina is also a popular destination, ideal for tranquil walks and people watching. Additionally, if in ownership of an electronic car, you’ll be able to re-charge your vehicle at one of the hotel’s integrated EV charging points.
Please also be aware that there a number of in-house initiatives in place to ensure children are kept entertained, including golf tuition programmes and ‘Segway safaris’, where kids will be able to explore the full resort using one of the most efficient modes of transport available! All restaurants and bars are mobilized to cater for specific dietary requirements.
For an intensely Scottish, luxurious, and highly-satisfying experience, all staged within a spectacular, world-famous location, we would encourage you to look no further than West Dunbartonshire’s Cameron House. From golf courses to gourmet food, refined accommodation to relaxing spaces, this resort never fails to deliver. Furthermore, its unrivalled location, with a raft of exclusive and more familiar outdoor activities within convenient reach, the Cameron House on Loch Lomond really does become a unique proposition to the discerning traveller. A bonny spot, on the bonny banks? We certainly think so.
The Modern Alchemy products take you on a sensual journey of transformative textures and self-care rituals for holistic rejuvenation of skin, body and mind.
A nourishing milk inspired by ancient cleansing rituals. It cocoons as it purifies and softens skin, melting to release precious essential oils, enveloping you in a beautiful aromatic blend of grounding Ylang Ylang, Sandalwood and Vetiver that soothes the mind, body and soul.
A creamy exfoliating balm inspired by ancient purification ceremonies. It transforms into a deep cleansing polish that gently buffs, hydrates and smooths, leaving skin glowing and delicately scented with an aromatic blend of grounding Ylang Ylang, Sandalwood and Vetiver that soothes the mind, body and soul.
This precious oil is inspired by traditional anointing rituals. Elevating bathing, massage and pulse point anointing into meditative experiences, honour your senses as you breathe in the beautiful aromatic blend of grounding Ylang Ylang, Sandalwood and Vetiver, which soothes the body, mind and soul.
A beautifully soothing salt soak, inspired by ancient traditions that harness the power of minerals and water to re-energise and purify. These delicate detoxifying pink crystals leave skin feeling soft, nourished and deeply cleansed, while an aromatic blend of Ylang Ylang, Sandalwood and Vetiver grounds the body, mind and soul.
The science is clear. We sleep deeper with increased recovery at a cooler body temperature. Our core body temperature should naturally drop every night, but for lots of people + lots of reasons it doesn't. With a temperature range from 13-46°C (55-115°F), our products ensure that whatever your sleep temperature, you can get — and stay — there.
Decide on the perfect temperature for your body, easily controlled with using the wireless remote! A great alternative to traditional costly air conditioning units.
Designed with recovery benefits from cold therapy in mind, customer testimonials describe how its cooling capabilities assist in reducing sleeplessness from hot flashes, menopause, body pain & night sweats, allowing a more relaxing sleep experience!
The Cube is the premier, cool-sleep solution that changed the world. It comes with a reversible, hydro-powered Chilipad® Cool Mesh™, thermal regulating control unit(s) and a remote to conveniently adjust bed temperature. Utilizing hydropower (water), this sleep solution operates between 13-46°C1 to create a revolutionary sleep-friendly environment.
The Cube control unit regulates the temperature of your bed. Just add water and plug it in for a night of comfortable, restorative sleep. Chilipad® Cool Mesh™ is an innovative, cooling mattress pad designed to provide comfortable and efficient temperature regulation.
The OOLER is our most advanced and most luxurious sleep system with a hydro-powered thermal range that operates from 13-46°C1. It includes our reversible Chilipad® Cool Mesh™, ergonomic control unit(s) and OOLER app for a truly customised sleep experience.
www.greubelforsey.com
www.sheridans.co.uk www.watches-of-switzerland.co.uk www.aehra.com
www.mprpartners.uk www.alpinawatches.com
www.amtauto.co.uk
The Greek Villas
www.aji.co.uk www.patek.com www.davidmorris.com www.lawinsport.com www.brandfinance.com www.thegreekvillas.com
www.polestar.com/uk 166
www.blackphone.co.uk www.theluxurynetwork.co.uk www.palmerparker.com www.ctshirts.com www.uk.jbl.com directory
A slim & functional phone stand and grip, which clicks into place for ever yday use. CLCKR Stands By You.
www.chilisleep.co.uk
www.lawblacks.com
www.perfectlyattired.co.uk
www.mobvoi.com www.delphinahotels.co.uk
www.frederiqueconstant.com www.urbanista.com www.maserati.com www.gomatic.co.uk directory
www.coggles.com
www.polestar.com
USM
www.swisseducation.com www.tundraesports.com
Switzerland Tourism
