Sky Sports and Kick It Out Renew Partnership

Sky Sports and Kick It Out have announced a one-year extension of their partnership, marking a sixth year of collaboration. This extension reinforces their shared dedication to creating a more welcoming environment in football. The partnership involves a £1m investment, combining cash and value-in-kind support, aimed at combating discrimination and fostering career opportunities within the sport. Over the past year, Sky Sports has supported various Kick It Out initiatives, including the launch of the 'Football United' strategy, a new partnership with Guinness 0.0, and the online education platform, The Academy. The Raise Your Game programme, which provides opportunities for young people from underrepresented communities, has also received support. Notable events include the launch of 'Football United' at Team Lewis in Battersea, hosted by Sky Sports News presenter Bela Shah, and the unveiling of the Guinness 0.0 partnership at a Greene King pub in Westminster. Sky Sports has also produced a documentary about Kick It Out founder Lord Herman Ouseley, highlighting his impact on the organization. The documentary was shown on Sky Sports and at England's game against Latvia. The partnership has been funded through Sky's £30m commitment to addressing structural inequality, supporting several initiatives, including a joint scholarship program with the University of Liverpool Management School and ongoing investment in Kick It Out's digital learning platform, The Academy. Hollie Varney, COO of Kick It Out, expressed gratitude for Sky's support, stating that the partnership has provided unique education and development opportunities for underrepresented communities in football. David Carrigan, Group Director of Diversity, Inclusion and Wellbeing at Sky, emphasized the importance of the partnership in driving forward a more inclusive and representative game. Sky Sports is committed to maintaining a safe and respectful online environment, free from abuse and hate.