Fairfax takes a sporting chance with new magazine

Hot on the heels of its announcement to axe 550 jobs, Fairfax unveils plans to launch a new men's magazine, Sport & Style.

The magazine was originally launched in France through the sports newspaper, L'Equipe. The Australian version will follow a similar pattern when it is inserted into The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age in the first week of each month from February 2009.

Content will focus on both Australian and international sports and players, from rugby, AFL and cricket through to cycling, soccer, golf and tennis.

"This is a major launch for Fairfax," said Lisa Hudson, chief executive and publisher of Fairfax Magazines.

"This title will appeal to active, confident men who appreciate quality and style as well as intelligent sports coverage. We believe it's the perfect formula for an upmarket men's magazine and there is a clear gap in the market."

Sport & Style will be sized at 300 x 225 mm, saddle-stitched and printed on 80gsm gloss stock with a 170 gsm cover.