CEO Stefano Core exits Banijay Live’s sporting events firm Balich Wonder Studio

Balich Wonder Studio (BWS), part of Banijay Live, has confirmed the departure of CEO Stefano Core.

Stefano Core

Core joined BWS in 2019 and has overseen the live event business’s growth strategy and operations, specifically reinforcing its presence in the Middle East.

Core’s replacement at the company, which was acquired by Banijay Entertainment in 2023, is expected to be announced in the coming days.

Led by chairman and chief creative officer Marco Balich, Milan-based BWS is best known for producing live sporting events including various ceremonies for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Pan American Games and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Banijay Entertainment’s move into live events via Banijay Live has provided the production and distribution giant with an alternative revenue stream at a time when TV commissions have been harder to come by, while it has made a major push into online sports betting via Banijay Games in recent years.

A BWS representative said: “The leadership team at BWS would like to extend its thanks to Stefano for the significant contribution he made to the business during his seven-year tenure. The business was acquired, developed and scaled under his leadership, preparing it for its onward growth trajectory. We greatly appreciate his commitment and contribution during this period and wish him the best with his future endeavours.”