Who Now Publishes IJSF and SMQ Journals Previously Associated with FiT Publishing?

Updated

Sage now publishes both the International Journal of Sport Finance (IJSF) and Sport Marketing Quarterly (SMQ). FiT Publishing announced the change on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, with a brief notice on its website stating that "IJSF and SMQ are now published by Sage." If you are looking for new issues, submissions, or subscription access to either journal, Sage is the publisher to contact rather than FiT Publishing.

What the Announcement Says

The FiT Publishing homepage carries the notice under its "Latest News and Announcements" section:

"IJSF and SMQ Are Now Published by Sage — Wednesday, August 6, 2025 - 08:33. IJSF and SMQ are now published by Sage. Read more"

That is the full extent of the public statement available on the site. It confirms the transfer of both journals to Sage but does not detail terms, back-issue arrangements, or editorial timelines.

What This Means for Readers and Authors

The practical implication is a change of destination, not necessarily a change of content:

  • New issues and subscriptions — Go to Sage's publishing channels for current content and access options.
  • Back issues — The announcement does not specify how previously published volumes are handled. If you need older content, check both Sage and FiT Publishing before assuming either source has it.
  • Submissions and editorial correspondence — Direct these to Sage, since it is now the publisher of record.
  • The FiT Publishing notice — Remains on the site for reference, but it is an announcement, not an active access point for the journals.

Context: FiT Publishing's Own Transition

The journal change sits alongside a separate organizational shift. FiT Publishing announced on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, that it is transitioning to become an imprint under West Virginia University Press. The site describes this as carrying on the legacy of founders Andy Ostrow and Bill Alsop.

These are two distinct changes:

Change Date announced Effect
IJSF and SMQ move to Sage August 6, 2025 Sage becomes publisher of both journals
FiT Publishing becomes a WVU Press imprint November 26, 2025 FiT's book publishing moves under WVU Press

If your interest is specifically the two journals, the Sage announcement is the relevant one. If your interest is FiT's book list, the WVU Press transition is the relevant one.

What Is Not Covered

The available site information does not state:

  • Which Sage imprint or division handles each journal
  • Whether subscription prices, submission fees, or editorial boards changed
  • How back issues or archives are distributed
  • Any transition period or deadline for authors with work in progress

For any of these, contact Sage directly or check its journal pages for IJSF and SMQ.