Nobok, which will launch in the UK in April with funding estimated to be in excess of $20million, will provide the service via an interactive website and a series of unique consumer events.
Leading sports legends from around the globe will be contracted by Nobok to supply exclusive content, interact on web forums, host events and provide authentic sports memorabilia for live on-line auctions.
Founder of the company and one of the key investors is UK financier Andrew Strode-Gibbons, who said: "Nobok will provide consumers with the opportunity for the very first time to have direct interaction with their sporting legends, either via our innovative website or by meeting them face-to-face at our events.
“Up until now, sporting heroes have been relatively inaccessible to the general public, but Nobok will put an end to that by offering unrivalled access and a series of 'money-can't buy' interactive experiences.”
Already signed up is former Newcastle United and England manager Sir Bobby Robson, who said: “Not only is Nobok a unique concept, but it has both the financial backing and expertise to become a major player in the global sports industry.”
The business will feature a website offering interactive nostalgic content enabling users to relive the excitement of great sporting moments from the past. It will include historical facts about players and events, live forums and an online auction site.
The Nobok offering will extend to ticketing and hospitality programmes at major events.
Nobok will initially focus on six core sports: soccer, rugby union, cricket, Formula One, tennis and golf. A US launch is planned for late 2005 featuring NBA, NFL, NHL, tennis, golf and Nascar, followed by further launches in Asia, South America and Europe.
