The sports industry is mourning the loss of Matt Cutler, a respected journalist, communications professional, and podcaster, who passed away on February 27, 2026. Cutler, known for his insightful coverage of the business of sports and a passionate support for Aston Villa Football Club, left an indelible mark on the industry through his work in journalism, communications, and podcasting. His career spanned influential roles at Sport Business, Two Circles, and more recently, through his independent ventures in audio storytelling and content creation.
Cutler’s career began with a strong foundation in sports journalism, eventually leading him to the editorship of Sport Business. This role positioned him at the forefront of reporting on the financial and commercial aspects of the global sports landscape. He later transitioned to Two Circles, a sports analytics and data science company, where he served as Head of Communications. Equilar details his tenure at Two Circles, highlighting his connection to key figures within the organization, including Gareth Balch, Chief Executive, and Tom Wright, Client Services Director. At Two Circles, Cutler leveraged his communication skills to connect the company with stakeholders across the international sports industry.
From Data to Storytelling: Cutler’s Evolution
Following his time at Two Circles, Cutler embarked on a new chapter, demonstrating his versatility and entrepreneurial spirit. He created and produced The Pirates vs The Premier League, an acclaimed podcast documentary series. This project showcased his ability to delve into complex narratives and present them in an engaging audio format. He then founded Lock It In Studio, where he hosted Guestimators alongside Absolute Radio presenter Andy Bush. This venture further solidified his presence in the sports media landscape, offering fans a unique blend of insight and entertainment.
More recently, Cutler’s focus shifted to women’s football with the creation and hosting of Expected Goals, produced by Unofficial Partner. This podcast explored the burgeoning business and growth of the women’s game, a sector experiencing significant expansion and increasing investment. His commitment to covering this evolving area of sports demonstrated his forward-thinking approach and dedication to highlighting critical trends within the industry. The podcast, as the name suggests, likely delved into the analytical side of the game, reflecting Cutler’s background in data-driven sports organizations like Two Circles.
A Widely Respected Figure
Cutler was described as a “widely known and warmly regarded figure” across the sports business landscape, according to the Sport Industry Group. His contributions extended beyond his formal roles, as he fostered connections with individuals throughout the global sports industry. LinkedIn posts following the announcement of his passing reflect the high esteem in which he was held by his peers. Kev Howland described him as a “really nice guy,” while Tom Rawlings called him a “fantastic sports industry professional” and an “outstanding human being.” Peter Mackness simply stated he was a “lovely guy,” and Lillian Chen-McMahon recalled knowing him from his earlier work with Electric Word and Sports Business.
The Sport Industry Group’s announcement of Cutler’s passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and remembrance from those who knew and worked with him. The organization acknowledged his passion for Aston Villa, a detail that speaks to his personal connection to the world of sports. His ability to bridge the gap between the analytical and the emotional aspects of the game likely contributed to his widespread respect and admiration.
Remembering His Work
Cutler’s work spanned a variety of platforms, from traditional journalism to innovative podcasting. His ability to adapt to the changing media landscape and embrace new technologies allowed him to reach a broad audience and make a significant impact on the sports industry. The Pirates vs The Premier League, for example, demonstrated his skill in long-form audio storytelling, while Expected Goals showcased his commitment to covering emerging trends in women’s football. His podcasting ventures, Lock It In Studio and Unofficial Partner, further highlight his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to creating engaging content.
His career trajectory – from editor of a leading industry publication to a communications leader at a data-driven sports company, and finally to an independent content creator – is a testament to his versatility and adaptability. He wasn’t simply a reporter *about* the sports industry; he actively participated in shaping its narrative and driving its growth.
Support and Resources
The Sport Industry Group has acknowledged the profound loss felt by those who knew Matt Cutler and has offered support to those grieving. Recognizing the importance of mental health, the organization has provided a link to Mental Health UK, offering access to grief support resources. This gesture underscores the importance of prioritizing well-being during times of loss and provides a valuable resource for those struggling with grief.
The passing of Matt Cutler represents a significant loss for the sports industry. His contributions to journalism, communications, and podcasting will be remembered, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps. He leaves behind a body of work that reflects his passion for sports, his commitment to insightful reporting, and his dedication to fostering connections within the industry.
As of this report, no details regarding a memorial service or other commemorative events have been publicly released. Further information will likely be shared by the Sport Industry Group and Lock It In Studio in the coming days. The sports community continues to offer condolences to Cutler’s family, friends, and colleagues.
We encourage readers to share their memories of Matt Cutler in the comments below. His impact on the sports industry was substantial, and his story deserves to be remembered and celebrated. Please also share this article to help spread awareness of his contributions and the resources available for those experiencing grief.