The art of deal making in sport: A review of “Fast Tracks And Dark Deals” by Michael Payne

Michael Payne, the author of “Fast Tracks and Dark Deals”, and I both cut our teeth at the organisation his book - and many others - have come to call "The University of Sport Marketing". That was almost 50 years ago now.  The “University” was the original joint venture between Patrick Nally of West Nally and the late Horst Dassler of Adidas that separated somewhat acrimoniously in 1982 prior to the Soccer World Cup in Spain. Horst set up the International Sports and Leisure (ISL) business thereafter, which eventually went bust in spectacular style in 2001. Michael’s book charts his lifelong career in sport and offers a ringside seat at number of sport organisations both as an employee and advisor. This included an early role at the University where we shared an office working together on the first London Marathon.

The book extends to 21 chapters and over 600 pages. It includes a fascinating assembly of pictures and images carefully choreographed to help bring the stories to life.  I could not put it down until I had finished.   At times the reader may wonder whether they are reading a fictional spy novel rather than a work of fact and informed opinion.  In that regard the book provides more than just a peep behind the curtain - indeed the iron curtain!   There are stories of being lobbied for deals in Russia whilst skiing down mountains. It catalogues several ironic incidents such as why doves stopped being released near the Olympic Flame and a story about Mr Ecclestone’s preferred watch brand and why.