BBC And Img Reveal World Cup Partnership

The BBC has announced that IMG will produce the broadcaster’s coverage of the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The tournament, which is taking place in Australia and New Zealand, will kick off on Thursday 20^th July, and sports, event and media business IMG will play a crucial role its UK coverage.

The BBC is sharing the UK broadcast rights with rival free-to-air broadcaster, ITV.

Under the agreement, IMG will manage the BBC’s incoming live match feed, studio presentation and highlight programming for the channel’s 33 fixtures throughout the tournament, including the final and semi-final stages. IMG will also have a dedicated production team embedded in the England Lionesses’ camp to create exclusive content for the BBC’s digital and news channels. 

Barney Francis, Executive Vice President and Head of Global Production at IMG, said, “The entire nation will be watching this summer’s World Cup with anticipation and excitement. We’re proud to bring viewers all the best live action and thrilling highlights through IMG’s coverage on the BBC, so fans can experience the Lionesses’ journey from home.”

IMG’s coverage will kick off with the tournament’s opening game between hosts New Zealand and Norway on 20^th July and includes England’s group stage match against Denmark.

This latest deal sees IMG grow its portfolio within football further. From its studio facilities at Stockley Park, IMG has recently worked on coverage of the England men’s UEFA Nations League matches, European Qualifiers and international friendlies for Channel 4, English Football League highlights show for ITV, the MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, and UEFA Champions League coverage for U.S. network, CBS.

IMG is also the Premier League’s international production partner, producing and distributing the world feed for all 380 matches each season alongside creative digital and social content.