North Star Network has confirmed that it has acquired SportsMole.co.uk for a seven-figure sum. It also marks the affiliate’s first investment of 2024.
SportsMole will join North Star Network’s portfolio of media brands including Top Mercato, Afrik-Foot, Trivela, Premier League Brasil and Vringe. The affiliate noted that the new asset will provide “a strong home for our UK-focused coverage”.
North Star Network co-founder Julien Josset thanked SportsMole founders Alan Jay and Neil Wilkes for their trust in the deal.
“SportsMole is a well-known sports media brand in the UK and many other English-speaking countries,” said Josset. “Our ambition is to take this brand to the next level, by refining the editorial product, migrating to a new platform, and diversifying the monetisation sources to make it a sustainable asset for North Star.”
Founded in 2011, SportsMole provides breaking news and results across multiple sports, but has a primary focus on football coverage. It largely serves the UK audience, but also has “significant visibility” in Africa and the US according to its new owner.
Jay and Wilkes said that they were thrilled to conclude the agreement with North Star.
“They have a proven track record of working with the biggest sports brands around the world, have a wealth of talent and experience at their disposal, and we are confident that they will take SportsMole.co.uk onwards to the next level in the years to come.
North Star also highlighted that it is excited to work with the SportsMole legacy team, who demonstrated an ability to “reach a broad audience with their predictions and match coverage”.
The affiliate will also develop the site using its existing data-driven and creative processes.