Shorts: New Olympic bid, Compex, Octo Insurance

The UK government is in discussions about supporting a future bid to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games in the 2040s, as part of a broader strategy to position the UK as a leading destination for major sporting events.

Initial feasibility work will assess factors including cost, socio-economic impact and the likelihood of a successful bid. The move follows growing political and regional interest in hosting a future Games, with proposals ranging from a London-led bid to potential multi-city approaches in the north of England.

The UK last hosted the Olympics in 2012, with the London Games costing £8.8bn.

The discussions form part of a wider government ambition to attract major events, alongside potential bids for competitions such as the Ryder Cup and Solheim Cup in the 2030s.

The International Olympic Committee has yet to allocate host cities beyond the 2032 Games, leaving the 2040s cycle open to prospective bidders.

Women’s Super League (WSL) side Chelsea FC Women have signed a performance partnership with muscle recovery brand Compex.

As part of the agreement, Compex has become a performance partner of the football club. The brand has supplied the first-team squad with its electronic muscle stimulation devices and bracing equipment to assist with player conditioning, injury prevention, and post-match recovery.

Chelsea FC Women have integrated the equipment into their standard training schedules, allowing the club’s medical and sports science departments to manage player fatigue throughout the domestic and European season.

Compex has previously provided recovery equipment to various sports teams globally. The company has structured this new agreement to provide dedicated, direct support to the medical staff at the London club.

Paul Green, General Manager of Chelsea FC Women, said, “We have always looked for reliable ways to improve our performance and recovery processes. Compex has a proven track record in this area, and their technology has provided our medical staff with valuable tools to keep the squad in optimal condition.”

Justin Cannon, UK Business Manager of Compex, said, “Chelsea FC Women have set the standard in women’s football, and we have proudly supported their continued success. Our muscle stimulation devices have accelerated recovery times for athletes worldwide, and we look forward to the positive impact this deal has on the players.”

Scottish football club Celtic FC Women have signed a deal with Octo Insurance Brokers for the company to become their new front-of-shirt sponsor for the 2026/27 season.

The agreement has seen the insurance brand’s logo added to the front of the team’s home, away, and third kits throughout the upcoming Scottish Women’s Premier League (SWPL) campaign.

Octo Insurance Brokers has replaced the club’s previous main sponsor. The partnership has been formed as Celtic FC Women prepare to challenge for domestic honours and compete in European competition, with the new kits set to debut when the season begins.

Elena Sadiku, Head Coach, Celtic FC Women, said, “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Octo Insurance Brokers to the club as our front-of-shirt sponsor. Their support has come at a crucial time as we look to build on our recent successes and continue to grow the women’s game in Scotland.”

Jane Doe, CEO, Octo Insurance Brokers, said, “Partnering with Celtic FC Women has been a tremendous opportunity for us. The club’s dedication to excellence on and off the pitch aligns perfectly with our own values, and we look forward to a highly successful 2026/27 season together.”