Boris Gartner

Boris Gartner is the Chief Executive Officer of LaLiga North America, a joint venture between LaLiga, Spain's premier football league, and Relevent Sports Group. He has been in this role since 2018, where he has significantly impacted the growth of soccer in North America.

Professional Background

Before joining LaLiga North America, Gartner had a notable career in media and sports. He worked at Televisa in Mexico City, where he restructured the content operation, leading to a 16% increase in prime-time ratings and saving the company over $60 million within a year. His experience there laid the groundwork for his later success at LaLiga North America.

Achievements at LaLiga North America

Under Gartner's leadership, LaLiga North America has secured two major media rights deals:

• In 2021, the organization sold its U.S. media rights to ESPN/Disney for eight years, valued at $1.4 billion.
• Shortly after, it extended its deal with Televisa for Mexico and Central America for eight years at $560 million.

Gartner's strategic vision has focused on creating demand for soccer through enhanced content and marketing strategies tailored to engage fans across North America. He emphasizes running the operation like a business rather than merely a marketing function, which has led to profitability by the second year of its establishment.

Recognition and Impact

Gartner has been recognized in various lists for his contributions to the sports business sector, including being named one of Sports Business Journal's "40 Under 40" in 2022. His efforts have helped establish a robust platform for soccer events in North America, aligning with the growing interest in soccer among Hispanic communities and beyond.

Gartner's background as a Colombian and his understanding of cultural diversity play a crucial role in his approach to expanding LaLiga's reach, aiming to connect with a broader audience passionate about soccer.

In summary, Boris Gartner is a pivotal figure in promoting soccer in North America through his leadership at LaLiga North America, where he leverages his extensive experience in media and sports to foster growth and engagement within the sport.