Category: SPORTS
Les Roches Creates a Foundation to Drive Research and Improvement in the Hospitality Industry
Les Roches, a leading institution in hospitality management education, has created the Spark X Foundation, a non-profit organization that will promote innovation, technology, and sustainability to improve both customer and employee experiences. Committed to inclusion, diversity, and a positive and lasting social impact, the foundation will base its mission on digital culture, sustainable development, acquiring new skills, and creating new opportunities.
Spark X Foundation will have two collegiate bodies, the ESG Advisory Board, composed of representatives from tourist destinations, associations, and federations, and the Strategy Advisory Board, made up of renowned professionals in different fields. Their work will enable collaboration and knowledge exchange between the industry, administration, and the educational community, fostering joint projects, business opportunities, and strategic alliances. The Advisory Boards, essential components for achieving the Foundation’s goals and activities, will include Arturo Bernal, Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Sports of the Junta de Andalucía; Francisco de la Torre, Mayor of Málaga; Ángeles Muñoz, Mayor of Marbella; Javier Gonzalez de la Lara y Sarria, President of CEA & CEM and Vice President of the Spanish Confederation of Business Organizations (CEOE); Maribel Rodriguez Gamero, Senior Vice President of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC); Natalia Bayona, Executive Director of UN Tourism (UNWTO); Gonzaga Escauriaza, President of the Royal Spanish Golf Federation; José Luque, President of the Costa del Sol Hotel Entrepreneurs Association (Aehcos); Cristina Martín Blasi, Executive President of Luxury Spain; Francisco José Sardón, President of PREDIF; María Bravo, President of Global Gift Foundation; Mónica Esteban, Founder and President of Juegaterapia; as well as Dimas Gimeno, Executive President of WOW Concept; José Ángel Preciados, CEO of ILUNION Hotels; Nuño de la Rosa, CEO of Air Europa; Joan Roca, Founder of El Celler de Can Roca; Mari Francis Peñarroya, CEO of Holiday World (Grupo Peñarroya); Lisardo Morán Urdiales, Managing Director of Tourism and Sport of Andalucía; Sonia Diez, President of EducAccion; Carlos Mateo, President of the Spanish Startup Association (AES); Ignacio Maluquer, CEO of Starlite; and Pedro Ruiz Aragoneses, CEO of Alma Carraovejas.
Moreover, the Spark X Universe network, composed of customer service organizers, industrial solution providers, academic institutions, public organizations, and associations, will lead solutions suitable for implementation in the industry.
Carlos Díez de la Lastra, CEO of Les Roches and President of Spark X Foundation, asserts: “Hospitality needs to stay ahead to remain the primary economic source it is and to thrive in a constantly changing environment. With Spark X Foundation, we aim to create a meeting point where we can support and nurture new talent with the expertise offered by great industry leaders and the international business sector. Only through the union of all hospitality actors, debate, and interaction with innovation will it be possible to elevate the overall experience of both the customer and the employee to the highest level.”
Spark X Foundation is part of Sommet Education, the prestigious hospitality education ecosystem that includes renown institutions such as Les Roches, Glion Institute of Higher Education, École Ducasse, Invictus Education, and the Indian School of Hospitality.
Legendary coach brings world-cl-ass strategy to India’s grassroots football movement
In a landmark move, SFL (Sports for Life), a sports-tech company focused on providing structured, tech-enabled multi-sport coaching to young athletes, announced the onboarding of Heimir Hallgrímsson as its Global Ambassador and Football Mentor. The current Ireland National coach and former Iceland & Jamaica national team coach, best known for masterminding Iceland’s fairytale win over England at Euro 2016, now brings his globally acclaimed expertise to the grassroots movement brewing in India.
This marks a bold and strategic chapter for Indian football, with Hallgrímsson set to play a pivotal role in driving technical excellence and long-term development through SFL’s football program and its flagship SFL Oranje Academy and Maharashtra Oranje FC.
Heimir’s journey from a practicing dentist in Iceland to steering his national team to its first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance in 2018 is the stuff of sporting folklore. In recent years, he has led Jamaica’s national team through the 2024 Copa America and coached the Republic of Ireland in a transitional phase. Now, he turns his focus eastward.
“What I see in India reminds me of Iceland in the early 2000s. The energy, the hunger, the dreams — they’re real,” said Heimir Hallgrímsson. “SFL’s commitment to long-term development, community building, and technical excellence is exactly the kind of environment where something extraordinary can grow.”
Hallgrímsson’s appointment comes at a critical time as Indian football faces growing interest and opportunity at the grassroots level. SFL is using analytical data, coaching science, and structured league formats to build a new generation of skilled footballers.
At the heart of this push is the SFL Oranje Academy & Maharashtra Oranje FC, a program built on three core pillars: technical skill development, tactical intelligence, and match awareness. Players undergo fitness and nutrition programs designed to nurture complete athletes — physically, mentally, and emotionally. The academy’s model blends global best practices with local passion, creating a framework that is both elite and inclusive.
“SFL’s belief is simple: talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not,” said Sourjyendu Medda, Co-founder of SFL. “Heimir brings much more than experience. He brings a philosophy, a legacy, and a vision that aligns with our mission to redefine football in India. His presence is a strong affirmation that we are here to raise the standards of how the game is taught, played, and understood across the country.”
While football remains the cornerstone, SFL’s vision extends far beyond a single sport. SFL also provides structured coaching and tournaments in Tennis, Table Tennis, Badminton, Chess, Squash & Badminton, underscoring SFL’s ambition to become India’s most trusted multi-sport youth platform. Similar programs in Swimming, Martial Arts, Athletics, Boxing & Gymnastics are in the pipeline.
In Hallgrímsson, SFL gains not just a tactician but a mentor, a builder, and a believer in the power of sport to transform lives. His arrival signals intent; to dream big, invest deep, and grow the game from the ground up.
Porsche Cars India breaks one thousand sales barrier for the first time with 1,006 vehicles sold in 2024
Porsche India has recorded another record year of sales in 2024, achieving a four figure sales number for the first time with 1,006 sales.
Representing a 10 per cent increase over the previous year, it marks the successful introduction of new models that entered the market during the year including the new Porsche 911 and Panamera.
Along with the new Cayenne launched in late 2023, Porsche India moves into 2025 with a completely new model range as it launches two new Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) today with the all-new Macan SUV and updated Taycan sports saloon
“After a strong 2023, we are happy to have exceeded this with an even bigger 2024, selling more than a thousand cars for the first time,” said Manolito Vujicic, Brand Director, Porsche India.
“This success is a testament to our exciting customer experiences, the introduction of new products, and our recent expansion over the past few years with additional Porsche Centres. With Pune and Hyderabad operations having commenced last year, we are committed to maintaining this momentum through 2025, with new Porsche Centres in Indore, Jaipur, and Lucknow planned to open by the end of the year.”
Porsche India recorded 156 sales of its two-door sports cars comprising the 911, 718 Cayman and Boxster, marking a 95 per cent increase. The surge for SUVs continued with 454 Cayennes and 259 Macans, equating to 71 per cent of total volume, capped off the year.
Moving into 2025, the new Macan BEV is now available across three models comprising the Macan (₹ 1,21,62,000), Macan 4S (₹ 1,38,62,000) and the 470 kW [639PS] Macan Turbo (₹ 1,68,62,000).
The new Taycan is available initially in two specifications, the Taycan 4S (₹ 1,89,42,000) and Taycan Turbo (₹ 2,52,62,000) with the two-wheel drive version that offers up to 678 km of WLTP range, an increase of 175 km or 35 per cent, to be introduced at later date.
“Looking ahead, 2025 is going to be an exciting year with a completely new line-up of models all launched within the past 14 months, including the Macan BEV and Taycan we have revealed today. As we expand into our three new locations, Porsche India is confident we can continue this positive momentum through 2025 and into 2026,” said Vujicic.
STAIRS Foundation Appoints Dr. Sunil Purohit to Spearhead Physical Education and Sport Science Division – INDIAN NEWS & TIMES
The Society for Transformation, Inclusion, and Recognition through Sports (STAIRS), headquartered in New Delhi, India, proudly announces the appointment of Dr Sunil Purohit as the National Head of the esteemed Physical Education and Sports Science Division. This significant development underscores STAIRS Foundation’s commitment to promoting sports excellence and nurturing young talent, aligning with the United Nations’ vision for inclusive and empowering opportunities for youth worldwide.
In his new capacity as National Head, Dr Purohit assumes a critical role in shaping the future of sports education, research initiatives, and coach training at STAIRS Foundation. Leveraging his profound expertise and dedication to excellence, Dr Purohit’s leadership will undoubtedly foster the growth and potential of athletes and coaches associated with the organisation, contributing to sustainable development in the realm of sports.
Welcoming Dr Purohit, Shri Siddhartha Upadhyay,President of STAIRS Foundation and Former Governing Council Member of Sports Authority of India, expressed, “The arrival of Dr Sunil Purohit marks a momentous occasion for STAIRS Foundation. His unwavering passion for sports and deep-rooted expertise in sports science will strengthen our organisation’s impact, advancing a brighter future for aspiring athletes and sports enthusiasts nationwide.”
“I am truly honoured and exhilarated to be a part of the STAIRS Foundation, an institution that shares my unwavering zeal for sports and empowering the next generation of athletes,” expressed Dr Sunil Purohit. “I eagerly look forward to collaborating with STAIRS in fostering a brighter future for sports education and innovation, leaving a positive impact on the lives of countless young talents.”
Dr Sunil Purohit is a distinguished Assistant Professor at the School of Sports Science, Central University Rajasthan, where he has made profound contributions to sports education. With an impressive 14-year tenure as the Former Junior Scientific Officer at the Sports Authority of India, Dr Purohit has played an instrumental role in shaping the sports landscape in the country.
Recognised for his outstanding achievements and unwavering commitment to sports science, Dr Purohit received the prestigious PODIUM International Scholarship, which allowed him to participate in the Pre-London Olympics ICSEMIS Conference, further enriching his expertise and global perspective.
JK Tyre Levitas Makes Luxury Statement at ‘Fast & Fabulous’ Supercar Showcase in Mumbai
JK Tyre & Industries Ltd. marked a new chapter in its premium journey with a high-octane showcase of its luxury tyre range, Levitas, at ‘Fast & Fabulous: The Supercar Catwalk’ in Mumbai. Blending high fashion with high performance, the event brought together supercars and the ultimate expression of speed, positioning Levitas as the tyre of choice for India’s growing tribe of luxury and performance car enthusiasts.
The evening saw together industry leaders, auto and racing enthusiasts, and personalities from across domains under one roof, including Mr. Anshuman Singhania, Managing Director, JK Tyre & Industries Ltd., Mr. Akhilesh Reddy, Chairman of Racing Promotions Pvt. Ltd and rally champion, India’s only Arjuna awardee in Motorsports, Mr. Gaurav Gill, underscoring the brand’s unique intersection of performance, aspiration, and lifestyle. Adding to the excitement were two Formula cars, the Formula 4 and Formula Wolf, announcing the 2025 season of the India Racing Festival, that is set to begin on August 15, 2025.
Speaking at the occasion, Mr. Anshuman Singhania, Managing Director, JK Tyre & Industries Ltd., said, “The Levitas range is pushing the boundaries of what a luxury tyre can represent, blending sophistication with cutting-edge performance. Through the Fast & Fabulous event, we have brought this vision to life, showcasing the style, control, and premium appeal our products are built to deliver.”
Adding to its legacy of bold innovation, JK Tyre also revealed its latest feat, a record attempt drift at Umling La Pass. The high-altitude stunt was performed by India’s drift king Sanam Sekhon on Levitas XTREME tyres.
Engineered with advanced compounds and precision tread design, the Levitas Ultra tyres for the premium segment and Levitas XTREME for ultra-high performance, represent JK Tyre’s growing push into the premium segment, offering tailored solutions for some of the finest high-end vehicles on Indian roads. Through this product range, JK Tyre has signaled a strategic push into the luxury and high-performance automotive segments, marrying decades of tyre expertise with forward-looking design and innovation.
Bodhitree Multimedia appoints Sudip Roy as Group Chief Revenue Officer
Bodhitree Multimedia Limited, a leading content production company, has announced the appointment of industry veteran Sudip Roy as Group Chief Revenue Officer and the launch of its new division, Bodhi Tree Ventures. The new division has been established as a dedicated business unit for digital content monetization, focusing on building and managing IPs across platforms like YouTube and other digital platforms.
With over 25 years of experience in media revenue management, Sudip Roy brings a proven track record from leadership roles at Star News, Zee, Neo Sports, Network18, and TCM. Under his stewardship, Bodhi Tree Ventures will develop and operate specialized digital channels, retain and monetize proprietary IPs, and explore third-party content monetization opportunities.
With Bodhi Tree Ventures, the company aims to move beyond content creation and step into owning, scaling, and monetizing digital assets. This initiative, led by Roy and Mautik Tolia, is set to position Bodhitree Multimedia at the forefront of the digital-first entertainment landscape. The unit is modeled akin to a digital response arm, strategically structured to unlock new revenue streams.
Speaking about the development and new ventures, Mautik Tolia, MD, Bodhitree Multimedia Ltd, shared, “We are delighted to welcome Sudip Roy to Bodhitree as we are entering a decisive phase of growth. His strategic acumen and deep understanding of driving revenue strategies and scaling digital businesses make him the perfect fit to lead Bodhi Tree Ventures. This new division marks a pivotal shift in our journey — from being content creators to becoming owners and monetizers of scalable digital IPs. This is an evolution toward owning and building a future-focused revenue model. Together, we aim to shape a resilient and forward-looking content business.”
Speaking about his new role, Sudip Roy said, “I’m thrilled to join Bodhitree Multimedia at this exciting phase of growth. With the launch of Bodhi Tree Ventures, we are laying the foundation for a future-ready, digital-first business focused on scalable IPs, strategic partnerships, and innovative monetization models. I look forward to collaborating with Mautik and the team to build sustainable revenue engines and shape the next chapter of value creation for the company.”
With the launch of Bodhi Tree Ventures and the addition of Sudip Roy as Group CRO, Bodhitree Multimedia is poised to redefine the digital space and strengthen its leadership in the entertainment sector. The division is already operational with multiple channels and IPs under development. The company remains focused on delivering value to stakeholders through innovation and strategic expansion.
Portronics Launches a Versatile Portable Tyre Inflator for Two and Four-Wheelers
India’s most loved gadget brand, Portronics, has launched the Vayu 3.0, aone-of-a-kindportable tyre inflator for vehicle owners. The device can refill objects to up to 150 PSI pressure, enabling owners to use it on their car, motorcycle, bicycle tyres and balls, as well as sports gear like footballs, basketballs and volleyballs. Its compact form factor and built-in 4000mAh rechargeable battery make it an ideal companion for contingencies when there is no petrol pump in the vicinity.
Performs Best Under Pressure
This Vayu 3.0 is super convenient in high-pressure situations, like a deflated tyre in the middle of nowhere. Users do not have to be ace auto mechanics to operate it either. Its cordless design and intuitive interface can be mastered by non-technical folk as well.
An LED display provides clear and precise readings, and an automatic pressure detection feature provides accurate tyre pressure readings. Once the desired pressure levels are entered on the device, the built-in air compressor starts pumping air into the tyre and shuts offs automatically when the internal pressure reaches the desired value. The Vayu 3.0 also lets users choose from preset modes—car, bike, bicycle, ball—to fill the air to a fixed pressure with minimum steps.
Portable and Practical
The Vayu 3.0 comes with many nozzles of different sizes, shapes and functions—for greater compatibility—and is a Presta Valve adapter-enabled model. The inflator is powerful enough to refill a tyre in less than 10 minutes and the battery capacity is enough to refill all four car tyres before needing to be recharged. It also includes a powerful LED flashlight that comes in handy when inflating a tyre in poor light or while navigating in the darkness to tend to the problem. The Vayu 3.0’s 4000mAh battery can be recharged via its standard USB Type-C port.
Pricing & Availability:
The Portronics Vayu 3.0 is available for purchase at an introductory price of just INR 2099 on the company’s official website, backed by a 12-month warranty. It is also available on Amazon.in, Flipkart.com, and other leading online and offline stores.
Manipal Jivisha Cancer Centre launches a dedicated Pain and Sports Injury Centre in Sonipat
Manipal Jivisha Cancer Centre today announced the launch of its Pain and Sports Injury Centre, bringing world-cl-ass, non-surgical solutions to pain management for patients in Sonipat and surrounding regions. This new centre will offer advanced care for musculoskeletal conditions, chronic pain, and sports-related injuries, significantly improving access to specialized care for local residents.
With Sonipat known for producing several national-level athletes and has a strong sporting culture, the centre aims to cater to a growing need for expert sports injury and rehabilitation services in the region.
The newly launched facility will house state-of-the-art regenerative therapies that use a patient’s own cells to promote natural healing and reduce dependence on surgery or long-term medications. This will especially help patients whose pain is not improving with medicines or physiotherapy, or those seeking faster recovery and less downtime.
The event was led by Dr. Namrata Dabas, HOD and Consultant – Pain and Palliative Care, Manipal Hospitals, Delhi, who will spearhead the services at the new centre.
Speaking on the launch, Dr. Namrata Dabas said, “Many people suffer from long-standing joint pain or sports injuries that go untreated due to the unavailability of specialist care in their region. With the launch of the Pain and Sports Injury Centre at Manipal Jivisha Cancer Centre, we are ensuring that patients in and around Sonipat no longer need to travel to metro cities for high-quality pain management and regenerative therapy. Through up-and-coming technologies, we are offering advanced, non-surgical options that accelerate healing and improve quality of life.”
The new centre is equipped to treat a wide range of conditions including knee, hip, shoulder pain, spine issues, and ligament injuries using advanced diagnostics and personalized treatment plans. The launch event was attended by several national level athletes and local dignitaries and was followed by a walkthrough of the facility.
SPORTS
The Stonehill Founder’s Day Run 2025, organised by Raadiant Sports and hosted by Stonehill International School, Bangalore, saw an impressive surge in participation, with over 1600 runners navigating the scenic trails of the Tarahunise village in North Bangalore on Sunday, September 7th. Held annually to celebrate the founding of Stonehill International School, the event honours […]
The surge in go-karting’s popularity in India has led to the establishment of world-class go-karting academies and training programs – INDIAN NEWS & TIMES
In recent years, the sport of go-karting has revolutionized the racing scene in India, capturing the imaginations of young aspiring drivers and providing a breeding ground for future motorsport stars. Beyond its thrilling entertainment value, go-karting has become a stepping stone for budding racers, fueling their dreams and serving as a catalyst for their pursuit of a career in motorsports. With state-of-the-art tracks, increasing participation, and a growing support base, go-karting is not only transforming the Indian racing landscape but also empowering dreams like never before.
An Accessible Entry Point
Go-karting serves as a gateway for young motorsport enthusiasts to experience the exhilaration of racing in a safe and controlled environment. With its smaller, lightweight vehicles and confined tracks, go-karting provides a platform for beginners to learn and develop essential racing skills, such as speed management, cornering techniques, and strategic decision-making. This early exposure kindles a passion for motorsports, instilling a competitive spirit and laying the foundation for aspiring racers to progress to higher levels of racing.
Professional Training and Development
The surge in go-karting’s popularity in India has led to the establishment of world-class go-karting academies and training programs. These institutions offer professional coaching, mentorship, and cutting-edge facilities to nurture the skills of budding racers. The focus extends beyond driving proficiency, encompassing physical fitness, mental resilience, and sportsmanship, creating a holistic development platform for future racing champions. Through these dedicated training initiatives, go-karting is nurturing talent and equipping young drivers with the tools they need to excel in the fiercely competitive world of motorsports.
Stepping Stone to Success
Go-karting has played a pivotal role in the rise of several successful Indian racers who have made their mark in national and international motorsport competitions. The experience and skills acquired in go-karting serve as a solid foundation for aspiring racers, opening doors to national and international racing championships and increasing their prospects of reaching the pinnacle of motorsports, such as Formula 1 or other prestigious racing leagues. Regular racing championships and tournaments, catering to both amateurs and professionals, foster healthy competition and provide a platform for emerging talent to shine. The thriving racing community in India not only fuels dreams but also cultivates camaraderie, propelling the growth of motorsports as a whole.
Inspiring the Next Generation
The impact of the go-karting trend extends far beyond the racing circuit. As young enthusiasts witness the rise of Indian racing stars and experience the thrill of go-karting themselves, it sparks inspiration and encourages them to dream big. The sport serves as a wellspring of motivation for future generations, instilling values like determination, discipline, and perseverance. The growing presence of Indian racers on the global stage further amplifies these aspirations, demonstrating that with passion, talent, and unwavering dedication, dreams can indeed become a reality.
Shaping Dreams, One Lap at a Time
The growing trend of go-karting in India is not merely about entertainment; it represents a powerful force that ignites dreams and nurtures the potential of future racing champions. By providing accessible entry points, fostering talent development, and cultivating a vibrant motorsport community, go-karting is reshaping the Indian racing landscape and empowering the aspirations of young motorsport enthusiasts. As more aspiring racers take to the tracks, the Indian racing scene is poised for even greater success, and the dreams of future racing champions are being set in motion, one thrilling lap at a time.