MLS Backs Img Arena For Betting Deal
Major League Soccer (MLS) has appointed London-headquartered IMG ARENA as its official data distribution partner.
According to a statement, the ‘long-term, global partnership’ between the top tier of US football and the data and media distribution company ‘will utilise the latest technology to create a new standard for soccer data and drive the next generation of fan engagement in MLS’.
Under terms of the agreement, which has been concluded following the increasing deregulation of the US sports betting market, IMG ARENA will deliver official data, innovative content solutions, next-generation fan analytics, and marketing tools to MLS’ betting and media partners.
Financial terms of the new agreement have not been officially disclosed, however, a Sportico report suggests that it is worth more than $270m (£225m).
Chris Schlosser, Major League Soccer’s SVP of Emerging Ventures said, “It is a partnership truly fit for the data age of sport and shows off the full capabilities of the IMG ARENA product and service offering. Together, we will empower the future MLS universe.
The extensive collaboration between MLS and IMG ARENA will utilise the latest in digital marketing technology to drive fan growth for MLS and MLS Next Pro ahead of World Cup 2026 in North America.”
Freddie Longe, President of IMG ARENA, added, “We are incredibly proud and excited to have secured this agreement with MLS for an all-encompassing partnership that allows both parties to plan and work on a long-term strategy that will take us to the 2026 World Cup and beyond.
“It is a partnership truly fit for the data age of sport and shows off the full capabilities of the IMG ARENA product and service offering. Together, we will empower the future MLS universe.”
