Variety & Uber Advertising to Host Sports Culture Happy Hour

On June 17, Cannes Lions will witness a transformative gathering as Variety partners with Uber Advertising to host the first-ever Sports Culture Happy Hour. Aimed at industry leaders who straddle the realms of sports and entertainment, the event is set to spotlight the intricate connections forged between modern sports communities and their audiences.

The highlight of the evening will be a thought-provoking panel titled “Champions of Sports Culture.” This session will delve into how today’s athletes, teams, brands, and media platforms create meaningful engagement with one of the most fervent consumer groups—sports fans. As the beating heart of cultural moments, sports have a unique ability to unite people, and this discussion aims to unveil the strategies utilized to deepen that bond.

Cynthia Littleton, Co-Editor-in-Chief of Variety, will take the helm as moderator, leading what promises to be dynamic exchanges among a star-studded lineup of panelists. They include Olympic Gold Medalist and New York Times best-selling author Jordan Chiles; Tammy Henault, Chief Marketing Officer of the NBA; Jess Ling, Executive Vice President of Global Brand Advertising at American Express; Georgie Jeffreys, Head of Marketing for Uber in the US and Canada; and Olympic Gold Medalist Tara Davis-Woodhall.

This conversation is particularly timely as the landscape of sports marketing evolves. Athletes and organizations are increasingly recognized for their cultural relevance beyond their athletic accomplishments. They’re shaping how brands engage with consumers in ways that resonate on a deeper, emotional level. As the line between sports and entertainment continues to blur, the insights shared at this happy hour will help illuminate the pathways for future collaborations and partnerships.

Kristi Argyilan, Global Head of Uber Advertising, emphasized the strong cultural magnetism of sports, stating, “People gather to build community around sports moments—on or off the field—because audiences love epic experiences.” This sentiment underscores the intent behind the event: to explore high-value opportunities that foster community connection, driven by the passion of sports enthusiasts.

Dea Lawrence, Chief Operating & Marketing Officer at Variety, also expressed excitement about this new initiative. “Variety is thrilled to host this happy hour in partnership with Uber,” she shared, “to amplify the cultural significance of sports and fandom in our industry.” The collaboration illustrates a growing recognition of sports’ impact, showcasing how fandom supports and enhances our collective cultural narrative.

Set against the exquisite backdrop of the Uber Villa, the Sports Culture Happy Hour is expected to be an electrifying experience, blending insightful discussions with networking opportunities among key industry players. The event seeks to not only engage but also inspire participants, offering a platform where ideas can flourish in a collaborative atmosphere.

For those interested in attending this pivotal gathering, invitations can be requested through a dedicated link on Variety’s website. As the excitement builds leading up to June 17, it’s clear that the Sports Culture Happy Hour will serve as a shining example of how sports and entertainment can come together to create meaningful connections within society.

As the world of sports continues to evolve and adapt, events like this will play a crucial role in bridging gaps and fostering collaboration. The conversations initiated at the happy hour will likely resonate well beyond Cannes, influencing marketing strategies and partnership initiatives across various sectors.

In summary, the Sports Culture Happy Hour presented by Uber Advertising is set to be a landmark event, showcasing how the intersection of sports and entertainment can engage audiences in profound ways. With notable voices contributing to the discourse, it’s anticipated that this panel will offer critical insights into the future of sports marketing, setting the stage for new and exciting developments in an ever-changing landscape. As the dialogue unfolds, both attendees and viewers alike will gain invaluable perspectives on the continuing evolution of the sports culture phenomenon.

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