GOAL has sent a model of Erling Haaland into space to celebrate the striker’s out-of-this-world debut season with Manchester City and launch their new GOAL Galacticos series.

The launch of the 3D-printed Norwegian striker is the first of a new content series called GOAL Galacticos. The regular series will use innovative cross-platform activations across the site’s global editions and social channels to celebrate elite footballers and is kicking it off with Erling Haaland. The objective of the series is to delight fans with never-been-done activations that hero the biggest players in the game.

GOAL teamed up with Sent Into Space for the one-of-a-kind launch held to celebrate Haaland’s record-breaking debut season with Manchester City, which has seen him become the record holder for the most goals in a Premier League season with 36.

Haaland took off from a launch site in Sheffield (UK) and climbed for two and a half hours to 34km (111,549 feet or 21,127 miles) - the closest region of space to Earth - otherwise known as Near Space.

The journey was streamed across GOAL's YouTube, TikTok, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram channels as well as hosted on GOAL's website.

The miniature Haaland was designed by Omar Momani, a regular cartoonist for GOAL who captured Haaland’s iconic meditation celebration. The models were created by the digital fabrication and rapid prototyping agency Duke Makes.

While it will take Manchester City fans months to come down from their Premier League title win, Haaland touched back down in the UK suffering only minor damage when he landed in Yorkshire, the county of his birth, after a two-hour journey.

Footballco’s Editorial Planning Lead, Miles Chambers, said: “Erling Haaland’s first year at Manchester City will surely go down as the greatest debut season in the Premier League’s history. He hit the ground running and never stopped. He is, simply put, a phenomenon.

“GOAL’s social and video team crafted this truly unique concept for Haaland’s out-of-this-world year as part of the first edition of GOAL Galacticos - a celebration of elite footballers with innovative content. We can’t wait to share what we have planned next.”

In total five ‘baby Haalands’ were 3D printed, with Manchester City fans to be gifted them in GOAL videos ahead of the FA Cup final, including one signed by the Norwegian striker. These videos are part of GOAL’s Fan Led Video strategy, where our hosts take to the streets to interview and challenge fans around matchday.

Haaland’s Season in Numbers

Premier League Goals Scored - 36

Premier League Assists - 8

He holds the record for scoring the most goals (nine) in his first five Premier League games

He is one of only six players to score back-to-back Premier League hat-tricks

Haaland is the quickest player ever to reach three Premier League hat-tricks after getting there in eight games

Haaland has scored more hat-tricks in all competitions this season (6) than every other Premier League player combined (5)

Haaland is the fastest player to ever score 25 goals under Pep Guardiola

Flight Details

Haaland went into space carried by a hydrogen balloon travelling at 17-20 mph

At the top of his flight, Haaland would have experienced temperatures around −65°C (−85°F)

The expanding balloon expands as it rises and at peak altitude will have been the same height as Buckingham Palace

During Haaland’s first five minutes of descent, he would have reached a speed of 200mph before his parachute opened

The veteran German Sports leader eyes an India visit to promote the sport.

Synopsis: The recently organized News9 Plus Corporate Cup promoted by TV9 Network brought forth an exciting development. The organising team and the champions, HDFC Bank, had the opportunity to travel to Germany to witness a thrilling Bundesliga match. Presented Lord Ganesha idol as a gift, Lothar Matthaus celebrated it saying that it would augur well for driving immense football talent in India.

TV9 Network recently organized the News9 Plus Corporate Cup, where the victorious HDFC Bank team had the privilege of experiencing a Bundesliga match in Germany. It is evident that this event has much to offer.

Before the highly anticipated match at Allianz Arena, the HDFC Bank Team had the privilege of visiting the Bundesliga Esports centre, where they witnessed virtual football competitions involving Bundesliga teams. TV9 Network and the winning team got a chance to meet and interact with Lothar Matthus, the inaugural FIFA World Player of the Year in 1991, 1990 Ballon d’Or winner, and Roman Weidenfeller, former Germany, and Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper.

When the TV9 Network team presented the Lord Ganesha idol to Lothar Matthaus, he held the statue in his hands and was overwhelmed with emotion. The gift of Lord Ganesha brought him immense joy. It is no surprise, as he, a legendary figure in German football, has the World Cup under his belt. Currently seated in Bayern Munich's den, Matthaus continues to inspire. Just as TV9 Network presented a gift to Lord Ganesh, Matthaus reciprocated by signing a Bayern Munich jersey and sending it back.

Matthaus himself expressed his interest in Indian football, acknowledging that India has a relatively young football culture. He conveyed his willingness to contribute to Indian football if the need arises. Additionally, he expressed his desire to visit India and meet his fans.

He commended TV9's remarkable initiative, acknowledging its lasting impact. The Corporate Cup serves as a platform to discover new talents, and in the days to come, it will continue to uncover promising individuals. Bringing talented players from a vast country like India should not pose a challenge; it simply requires effective scouting.

Roman Wiedenfeller, another distinguished World Cup player, shared valuable insights into Indian football and engaged in separate discussions with the team.

Having secured the championship in the one-of-a-kind corporate tournament on May 7, the members of HDFC Bank Team experienced the exhilarating spectacle of the European giants Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig clash in a highly anticipated German first-division football match on Saturday, May 20, in Munich, Germany. Joining the winning team in the stands to witness the breath-taking football action was Girish Mahajan, Maharashtra's Sports, and Youth Welfare Minister.

With bated breath, the football aficionados watched from the stands as the two powerhouse teams battled it out on the pitch. The match was filled with pulsating moments, brilliant displays of skill, and relentless determination from both sides. The crowd erupted in applause as the players showcased their exceptional abilities and strategic prowess. The visitors RB Leipzig emerged victorious with a stunning 3-1 win, ending Bayern Munich’s hopes of securing their 11th successive title.

While sharing his experience Sukesh Shastri, Senior Vice President of HDFC bank, said, “Our time in Germany was truly electrifying. Witnessing the match alongside passionate football fans from around the world was a remarkable experience. Meeting legends like Mr. Lothar Matthus and Roman Weidenfeller was the main highlight of our trip. It is a great experience for all the corporates in India that TV9 Network has built and from here we just expect to go to the next level.”

The News9 Corporate Cup has left an indelible impression in the corporate realm, weekend football has typically revolved around prize money. However, TV9's visionary initiative has sparked a different kind of dream, opening new horizons for the future.

YouTube is live at Upfronts 2023, sharing even more ways for advertisers to tap into the creators and content viewers love on every screen.

Live from Lincoln Center Theater, we returned to the Upfronts to celebrate creators like Airrack, AllyiahsFace and MrBeast, share news about YouTube’s partnership with the NFL, highlight amazing brands like Hershey, and unpack world-changing shifts in video.

Major shifts in creation and consumption

Now that we have the power of a production studio in the palm of our hands, the universe of creators is growing every day. Today, creating is about participating in a cultural moment, and making the most of every kind of video format. From 15-second Shorts to 15-hour live streams, more creators are coming to YouTube than ever before—which means more fans coming to watch, which drives more engagement for advertisers.

We also see major shifts in how people experience content. YouTube is where people engage with Shorts in a big way, and of course, more viewers are tuning into YouTube on the biggest screen in their home. In the latest Nielsen Gauge Report, YouTube viewership increased last month, making YouTube the No. 1 most-watched streaming service for TV in America—again. The leader in streaming watch time, YouTube (including YouTube TV), reached over 150 million people on connected TVs in the United States.

Across every screen, genre, and format of video, in a world where they can watch anything, the world watches YouTube.

Introducing new ways to reach CTV viewers

More and more advertisers are eager to respond to these shifts in viewership, and reach the largest streaming audience. So we’re excited to share two announcements in YouTube’s streaming offering.

First, we’re bringing 30 second non-skips to YouTube Select ... Instead of seeing two :15 ads consecutively, they'll see one :30 ad.

First, we’re bringing 30 second non-skips to YouTube Select on CTV. We know that running longer-form creative on the big screen aligns with your objectives, and allows for richer storytelling. YouTube Select is now landing over 70% of impressions on the TV screen2, so we’re making it easier for you to use existing assets in front of the most-streamed content. This format also seamlessly fits into what viewers already expect and experience on the big screen. Instead of seeing two :15 ads consecutively, they'll see one :30 ad.

Next, we’re bringing new Pause experiences to CTV, so you can drive awareness or action by owning that unique interactive moment when people pause a video. This is seamless for viewers and allows them to learn more about your brand.

YouTube is where the fans are

YouTube is the new home of NFL Sunday Ticket. Tonight on stage at Brandcast, Roger Goodell, Commissioner of the National Football League, and Deestroying joined forces to share the highlights of football culture on YouTube—and how brands can get in the game.

As part of our NFL partnership, there’s even more original programming, like Game Day All Access, where you can listen in as mic’d up players bring you onto the sidelines during the game. And we’re launching a new original Shorts series on the NFL’s YouTube channel after the football season kicks off this year: “NFL Creator of the Week.”

Soon, advertisers can reach football fans across YouTube’s entire array of NFL content, whether they’re viewing live games on YouTube TV and Primetime Channels, or watching highlights, post-game commentary, and other related content across YouTube.

Sony Electronics used Google AI to seamlessly add relevant voice over into their products ads, and saw a 25% lift in ad recall.

Your marketing and creative, multiplied by Google AI

The world is experiencing the next major platform shift with AI. Google is ready for this moment—and in fact, it’s powered by our technology and innovations. Today, people’s viewing habits may be complex, but reaching them on YouTube isn’t. AI can help you find the best mix of formats to hit your campaign goals from reach to action.

Google AI can also meaningfully help scale and multiply one of the most critical drivers of ROI: your creativity. Sony Electronics used Google AI to seamlessly add relevant voice over into their products ads, and saw a 25% lift in ad recall.

This is one of the many examples of what’s possible with Google AI right now. From endless iterations of your ads to videos trimmed or flipped for the right formats, Google AI helps businesses market at the speed of consumers. And this is really just the beginning. Google AI is accelerating creativity, and the possibilities will extend beyond anything we can imagine today.

YouTube delivers superior returns

With the power of Google AI, YouTube works. And you see it in the returns. One brand that’s found sweet success on YouTube? Hershey. According to Nielsen MMM results, YouTube’s ROI has grown by 65%—making YouTube Hershey’s #1 ROI-driving media partner.

We’ve seen results like that at scale, so we asked our partners if they see the same. Nielsen, TransUnion and Ipsos MMA, confirm that on average, YouTube delivers higher ROI than TV and other online video.3

No place is better equipped to connect you with key audiences and drive the results you care about. The best of YouTube is yet to come—and we’re excited to get there, together.

Source: Nielsen's Streaming Platform Ratings, Live+7, YouTube inclusive of YouTube TV and YouTube Main, December, Total Day Reach with a 1 minute viewing qualifier

Source: YouTube internal data, US, December 2022

Source: Nielsen: Compass ROI Benchmarks for US including all available results for two years from January 2020 - March 2022. TransUnion: commissioned MMM meta-analysis for the US including all available results for two years from January 2020 - December 2021. Ipsos MMA: MMM results for US including all available results for 2022

Written by Anne Marie Nelson-Bogle, Vice President, YouTube Ads Marketing

The airline returns to Roland-Garros 2023 for the 11th consecutive year as the Official Airline and Premium Partner of the iconic Paris tournament.

Emirates is back in action as the Official Airline and Premium Partner of Roland-Garros 2023 for the eleventh consecutive year.  A long-standing partner of Roland-Garros since 2013, the airline recently renewed its commitment as Premium Partner of the Grand Slam until 2027. The premier clay court event is set to take place from 28 May until 11 June 2023 at Stade Roland-Garros. 

Boutros Boutros, Divisional Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications, Marketing and Brand at Emirates, said: "We are delighted to be back on the clay courts for our eleventh consecutive year. Roland-Garros is one of the most prestigious tournaments in the world of tennis and Emirates is very proud of our long-standing association with the event, with the sport, and with France. As a global airline, we are committed to supporting world-class events that bring people together and showcase excellence, and Roland-Garros does just that. We look forward to another exciting year on the courts and to bringing fans from all corners of the world closer to the action."

Connecting with tennis fans worldwide  

Emirates will connect with tennis fans this year through a series of exciting "fly better" initiatives, including: an interactive game within the Roland-Garros app, offering fans a chance to win Roland-Garros tickets and La Griffe Roland-Garros gifts; and world-class hospitality.

Partners with Roland-Garros since 2013

Emirates’ longstanding partnership with Roland-Garros started in 2013. The airline became a Premium Partner of the Grand Slam in 2018 and the airline enjoys significant presence throughout the tournament, including branding on the Philippe-Chatrier centre court, Suzanne-Lenglen court and Simonne-Mathieu court.

Emirates is also the presenting partner of the Trophée des Légendes, which takes place from 6 June   to 11 June 2023.  The airline has partnered with a local organisation to offer children with mobility challenges a chance to meet world renowned tennis legends, watch the matches, and an exclusive behind the scenes tour of the stadium.

Emirates is the Official Airline and Premier Partner of the ATP World Tour. The airline’s tennis portfolio includes some of the highest profile events in the world, including three of the four Grand Slams, and 60 other tournaments across the year.

The airline’s extensive sponsorship portfolio also includes other top global sports such as tennis, golf, horse racing and sailing. 

Serving France with 35 weekly flights

Emirates has been serving France for more than 30 years. The airline currently serves the country with 21 weekly flights to Paris, 7 weekly flights to Lyon, and 7 weekly flights to Nice, with the iconic A380 returning to the city on 1 June 2023.   The airline’s extensive network of 140 destinations offers French customers access to an array of onward connections to Asia, the Indian Ocean, the Middle East, Africa and Australasia.

Emirates is also the Official Main Sponsor of Olympic Lyonnaise (OL); Worldwide Partner of Rugby World Cup 2023 in France (taking place in September this year); and a proud sponsor of UAE Team Emirates, supporting some of the biggest cycling tours such as Tour De France.

Unmatched travel experiences

Emirates is renowned for its exceptional services and luxurious amenities. The airline operates the world’s largest fleet of wide-body Boeing 777 and Airbus A380 aircraft, offering spacious cabins and iconic inflight features such as its A380 Shower Spa and Onboard Lounge, and its ice inflight entertainment system available in all seats across its fleet, which has topped "best in sky" awards for 17 consecutive years.

The captivating mythological series that chronicles the evergreen tales of the adolescent Kanha will air from May 28th, daily at 10.30 AM on Sonic and Colors Rishtey

In the realm of local IPs, category leader and pioneer in kids’ entertainment, Nickelodeon continues to solidify its leadership by consistently fostering innovation at its core. From iconic friendship of Motu Patlu, magical adventures of Rudra, relatable sibling banter of Chikoo and Bunty to the first homegrown sci-fi kids’ comedy series with Abhimanyu Ki Alien Family and much more, the kids’ franchise has identified whitespaces and addressed the consistent demand for engaging and immersive storytelling. Further staying true to its promise of propelling indigenous stories, Nickelodeon is all set to bring its recently announced 13th homegrown IP – ‘Kanha – Morpankh Samraat’ on Sonic, starting May 28th, every day at 10.30 AM.

Showcasing his playful and mischievous antics, ‘Kanha – Morpankh Samraat’ is a captivating mythological series that chronicles the evergreen tales of the adolescent Kanha, and traces his journey as a son, warrior, hero, and friend. Each episode showcases a legendary tale from Kanha’s life, featuring his courageous acts and his lessons on love and kindness. Recognizing the potential for broader appeal, Nickelodeon will extend the show beyond its channel, and make way to the Viacom18’s Hindi general entertainment channel Colors Rishtey, thereby strengthening the kids’ franchise’s presence across different age groups and widening its impact.

Speaking on the latest addition to its homegrown IP lineup, Nina Elavia Jaipuria, Head, Hindi Mass Entertainment and Kids TV Network, Viacom18, said, “At Nickelodeon, we have consistently set category benchmarks, revolutionizing entertainment for young audiences. We believe that introducing a show like Kanha – Morpankh Samraat will help kids connect to their roots through inspiring tales from our rich cultural heritage. As we embark on this remarkable journey, we remain dedicated to strengthening our franchise while simultaneously extending our content beyond our kids’ network on Colors Rishtey, thus reaching new heights and connecting with the minds of kids and families alike."

Anu Sikka, Head – Creative, Content, and Research, Kids TV Network, Viacom18 further added, “At Nickelodeon, we prioritize our young audience and strive to provide them with content that they truly enjoy. We have always broken the mould by bringing unique stories and endearing characters. While Kanha is an evergreen character, it’s time to bring back his tales in a new avatar that appeals to a wider audience. Our partnership with Cosmos-Maya further amplifies our commitment to creating groundbreaking content that sparks imagination and ignites young minds.”

Megha Tata, Chief Executive Officer, Cosmos Maya said, "As Nickelodeon embarks on the journey to create a new world with their latest IP 'Kanha - Morpankh Samraat', we are thrilled to partner with them once again. This association strengthens our bond and reflects our commitment to delivering engaging and captivating content to young viewers. Together with Nickelodeon, we are excited to bring to life the adventures of Lord Kanha in an adolescent avatar.”

Pulling out all the stops, 'Kanha – Morpankh Samraat' will be brought to life through a robust marketing mix, encompassing partnerships, immersive experiences, besides a host of social media, digital and on-ground initiatives. The show will further engage children's imaginations through a range of unique and creative promos across a variety of platforms, including GECs, and music and movie channels across and beyond its network strength. From in-cinema advertising to rolling out ads on connected TV platforms, the kids’ franchise aims to deepen engagement and create show awareness reach amongst young viewers.

Leading the local IP content game through creative storytelling and great animation, the launch of ‘Kanha – Morpankh Samraat’ is yet another addition to Nickelodeon’s robust content slate and is sure to capture the hearts and minds of kids and families alike.

Immerse in the captivating world of young Kanha with ‘Kanha – Morpankh Samraat’ starting from 28th May 2023 daily at 10.30 AM on Sonic and Colors Rishtey!