Sector Performance

In 2025, the sports, media, and entertainment sector entered a period of transformation driven by technology, shifting consumer behavior, and strategic investments. High-profile transactions and cross-sector partnerships fueled deal activity as companies pursued transactions to expand platforms, secure content, and deepen digital integration capabilities.

Competition among streaming platforms for live content intensified, resulting in record valuations. Women’s sports emerged as a significant growth engine, attracting increased investment, sponsorship, and ownership interest. Gaming continued to attract strategic and financial buyers, while generative AI continued to reshape content production and personalization, even as ethical and regulatory concerns grew.

Hogan Lovells Activities

Our Sports, Media, and Entertainment team supported clients navigating rapid change through thought leadership, strategic sponsorships, and active participation in global industry forums. We published insights on emerging trends and regulatory developments and led conversations about the sector’s future.

We sponsored and participated in marquee industry events, including The Rise of Women’s Football conference in London and the Games Industry Law Summit in Lithuania, helping foster collaboration and innovation. We advised clients across fantasy sports betting, professional sports investments, league regulation, and creator-focused employment issues, reinforcing our position as a trusted advisor to industry leaders.