How to Build an Addressable Fanbase in Serie A with Sean Foley & Italo Zanzi

Demonstrable, addressable fanbases are now the foundation of media value, sponsorships, and sustainable revenue.Sean Foley and Italo Zanzi are here from Hellas Verona FC to outline their competitive DNA in player development and culture designed to be “the club everyone wants to play for.” They highlight a fervent regional base and the importance of aligning the club with civic leaders and a city renowned for its arena, opera season, and visibility tied to the upcoming Olympic and Paralympic ceremonies. From being early guinea pigs for social platforms at AS Roma to today’s experiments with sponsors and fintech integration, facility upgrades, and a pragmatic view of media economics, Sean and Italo also share how streamers like Netflix, ESPN, and Paramount+ are shaping rights strategies for leagues.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why Verona sees provable, permission-based fan data as the key to unlocking media rights value and attracting serious sponsorshipsHow the club’s identity is shaping player development and off-field cultureVerona’s deep integration with Croatian fintech Aircash to co-create stadium and ticketing solutionsThe unique ways Verona is turning their city’s assets into global growth opportunitiesWhy Netflix’s approach matters for rights holders, and how Verona positions itself amid shifting economicsResources and Links:Connect with Sean Foley on LinkedInConnect with Italo Zanzi on LinkedInLearn more about Next League on our website and LinkedIn. We are leading sports organizations into the digital future.Dave’s book is available now! Get your copy of The Business of Sports Technology: How To Make Smart Decisions That Drive Your Organization Forward.