By Duncan Mackay in Lausanne

SportAccord International Convention have decided to do the sales and marketing for next year's event in-house after ending their deal with Red Torch ©SACSportAccord International Convention have revealed they plan to do the sales and marketing for next year's event themselves after deciding not to renew their contract with Red Torch. 


London-based Red Torch, who have been involved in the event since 2006, when it was held in Seoul, were informed of the decision earlier this week, insidethegames understands. 

The decision by SportAccord International Convention to bring the important function in-house was taken following several months of discussions following this year's event in Belek, Turkey. 

Red Torch were responsible for the global sales and marketing strategy, and delivery of the event's successful multi-tiered sponsorship programme and sell-out exhibition.

SportAccord International Convention have put brought sales and marketing in-house for next year's event, the venue for which is due to be announced soon ©SACSportAccord International Convention have put brought sales and marketing in-house for next year's event, the venue for which is due to be announced soon ©SAC

"SportAccord Convention has decided to insource the Sales and Marketing function for 2015 and beyond," a spokesman for SportAccord International Convention told insidethegames.

"We are excited to further engage with the organisations and people at the heart of the international sport community.

"At the same time, SportAccord Convention would like to sincerely thank Red Torch for their involvement and contribution over the years and we wish them all the best in their future endeavours."

The decision by SportAccord International Convention to end their long association with Red Torch coincides with plans to dramatically upscale the event next year. 

This includes increasing the number of delegates from the current 2,000 to up to 8,000.

A venue for the 2015 edition of the event still has to be announced with Abu Dhabi, Durban, Sochi and an unnamed Brazilian city all in the running.

A decision is due to be announced later this month.

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