Sports data and technology supplier IMG Arena has entered into a global data, streaming and integrity partnership with the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) in the US.
Under the multi-year deal, IMG Arena will capture and deliver data from over 161 NWSL and NWSL Challenge Cup games per season for its global network of more than 460 sportsbook operators, as well as distribute live streaming for betting.
IMG Arena will also serve as the league’s official integrity partner, providing the NWSL with full monitoring services to help safeguard competitions and tournaments.
The 11th NWSL season kicked off on March 25.
“As the NWSL continues to grow on and off the field, delivering new opportunities to further engage with our teams and players is critical to unlocking our potential as an entertainment business,” NWSL chief revenue officer Mitch Poll said.
“This new partnership is a key step in increasing the value add of our league and we are excited to work alongside IMG Arena as we continue enhancing the fan experience for NWSL fans and sports enthusiasts alike.”
IMG Arena’s commercial partnership manager for the Americas, Andrew Turner, added: “We are delighted to be partnering with the world’s premier women’s soccer league to help grow the NWSL’s global reach and engage fans with a front-row seat to every moment of the action.
“With last season’s record-breaking attendance, new Utah and Bay Area franchises set to join in 2024, and a new-format Challenge Cup, the NWSL is one of the most exciting properties in global sports and a fantastic addition to our expanding US soccer portfolio.”
The partnership builds on IMG Arena’s global portfolio of sports properties including Major League Soccer, golf’s PGA Tour and the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
Acquisition
Earlier this month, IMG Arena also announced it had completed its previously announced acquisition of virtual sports and casino games provider Leap Gaming.
IMG Arena said it will combine its portfolio of rightsholder clients with Leap’s technology and products to unlock new revenue streams and provide sportsbooks operators and their consumers with a wider portfolio of sports content.
Founded in 2014, Leap works with 120 sportsbook operators around the world. IMG Arena invested in Leap in 2018 and worked together to launch a number of official virtual sports betting products with Nascar and basketball’s EuroLeague.