Sports Illustrated cover
Sports Illustrated, the world’s most iconic sports publication, is shutting down. Or, at least the Arena Group, which runs its operations, is threatening to cease publication in May over a licensing dispute with Authentic Brands. That is what it told employees, warning them to be ready for Sports Illustrated’s closing.
Authentic Brands bought Sports Illustrated in 2019 and licensed its publication to the Arena Group.
In January, Authentic Brands canceled the deal over Arena’s failure to make a $3.75 million payment.
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But there could be hope yet. Authentic Brands could always find another company to operate the publication.
The Arena Group is a technology platform and media company that owns a portfolio of well-known media brands including Sports Illustrated, TheStreet, Parade, and Men’s Journal. They focus on content aggregation and reach over 100 million users monthly.
Until recently, the Arena Group was led by its founder Ross B. Levinsohn, American media executive with a long history working at the intersection of technology and media. Levinsohn held senior roles at major companies like Yahoo, Fox Interactive Media, and Tribune Publishing; however, he was fired from the leadership of Arena Group in 2023.
Sports Illustrated, affectionately known as SI, has been gracing newsstands and coffee tables with gripping sports stories and stunning photography for over 65 years. Its journey is fascinating, filled with unexpected turns, cultural impact, and unwavering dedication to the world of athletics.
In the 1950s, Henry Luce, the media mogul behind Time and Life magazines, saw the potential for a new kind of sports publication. He envisioned a magazine that combined in-depth reporting, captivating writing, and high-quality photography to elevate sports journalism to a new level.
The 1990s saw the rise of ESPN and other cable sports networks, along with the burgeoning internet, which challenged Sports Illustrated’s dominance in sports media. The magazine adapted by launching its own website and diversifying its content to include more opinion pieces, humor, and human-interest stories.
The Sports Illustrated legacy is undeniable. It revolutionized sports journalism, introduced millions to the beauty and drama of athletics, and played a significant role in shaping sports history. But does it have a future?
