The sports media, events, and marketing company has seen interest in the area increase
Infront, part of Wanda Sports Group, has appointed André Fläckel to head its esports and gaming division.
The company has seen growth in the area in recent years, and it is one of the only sports able to operate at something close to normal during the coronavirus pandemic. This is due to the ability to produce and play the sport remotely.
Fläckel joins Infront from Lagardère Sports, where he co-founded the esports department. He will report to senior vice president of people, innovation & corporate services, Christian Müller.
The business has several interests in esports, including French organisation Team Vitality, and the eSerie A. While traditional sports have been postponed due to the covid-19 lockdowns, there has been a quick growth in esports to fill the gap in content – something the industry has looked to take advantage of.
Müller said of the appointment: “We see tremendous potential in esports and the chance to target fan communities. These opportunities range from finding solutions for publishers, events and leagues through services we provide, to supporting teams, players and influencers and building our own esports communities.”
Fläckel added: “Gaming’s cultural influence has been felt for many years, especially among digital natives.”
“Whilst traditional sports have come to a standstill following the outbreak of COVID-19 competition continues in esports. In-person events may have stopped, but many competitions have moved to online play where rivalries continue and teams battle for a shot at various championships.”