STRIVE SECURES SBK X BRADFORD CITY DEAL TO DRIVE FAN-FOCUSED GROWTH

Sports marketing consultancy Strive Sponsorship has brokered a new multi-year partnership between SBK, the sportsbook app from Smarkets, and Bradford City AFC, newly promoted to EFL League One. The collaboration aims to deepen fan engagement and drive measurable brand impact for SBK through content innovation and strategic alignment.

The deal positions SBK as one of Bradford City’s main partners and official betting sponsor. The partnership’s centrepiece is the launch of a new club podcast, designed to give fans exclusive behind-the-scenes access, nostalgic stories, and in-depth interviews with past and present figures from the club.

The tie-up follows an insight-led strategic review of the English football ecosystem conducted by Strive on SBK’s behalf. This review identified rights holders whose brand values, audience profile, and commercial proposition aligned with SBK’s mission to grow awareness and salience in a crowded betting market.

“It’s been an absolute pleasure supporting long-term client SBK throughout this process, said Malph Minns, Managing Director at Strive.

“They’ve really bought into the data-led, insight-driven methodology we’ve developed to guide partnerships that aren’t just visible—but valuable.

“The City team have been incredibly collaborative, and I’m excited to see the partnership come to life—especially with the podcast bringing fans closer to the club’s story.”

The deal showcases how Strive blends market intelligence, rights negotiation, and fan-focused activations to deliver partnerships that serve both brand objectives and supporter experience. For SBK, the podcast provides a powerful content platform to deliver long-term brand affinity, while Bradford City AFC benefits from a new media channel to build deeper connections with its loyal fanbase.

Adam Baylis, Marketing Director at SBK, said: “Strive undertook a data-led strategic review of English football for us over the summer, identifying opportunities that fit within a clear strategy to help us build brand awareness and brand salience.

“They also led on contract negotiations, securing us the rights we need to deliver value to the business.

“As a result of that work, we are thrilled SBK will be partnering with Bradford City AFC. Together, we will be bringing fans closer to the action and backing the Bantams every step of the way in what will be a really exciting season in Sky Bet League One.”

Davide Longo, Chief Commercial Officer at Bradford City AFC, added: “We are incredibly pleased to welcome SBK on board as the club’s official betting partner and will look forward to working closely with them over the next two seasons.

“The introduction of a Bradford City podcast will help bring supporters closer to their club, hearing stories from former players and other guests each month.

“Working with Strive has been an absolute pleasure. They are an incredibly thorough and professional outfit who are diligent in approach and work with a smile.”