January 28 – Major League Soccer (MLS) is moving its productions to WWE Headquarters in Stamford Connecticut from East Harlem, New York.
As the media landscape continues to evolve, the decision to make the move is based on the league’s desire to broaden its content offerings, create efficiencies and centralise its broadcast content and graphics.
The collaboration involves MLS renewing its current production partnership with International Management Group (IMG), which will produce the live matches and studio show. Currently, more than 600 games move through MLS Season Pass behind the Apple TV paywall.
The new location for MLS Season Pass enables MLS Productions to add programming in the new season, with The Studios at WWE serving as the hub for MLS live studio programming and content in English and Spanish.
MLS executive vice-president of media, Seth Bacon, said: “The debut of MLS Season Pass on Apple TV has been remarkable for fans around the world to be able to consume all MLS games and content. With the incredible momentum and excitement around the league, we are thrilled to further our partnership with IMG to support our vision of elevating production, creating new viewing opportunities, and pushing the sports broadcast landscape into the future.”
Barney Francis, EVP, of studios at IMG, added: “Together with MLS and Apple, we have set a new standard for the MLS viewing experience, creating a new era of entertaining, highly engaging content for football fans globally. Over the coming years, we will continue to innovate with cutting-edge technology and creativity, powered by our incredible new home, The Studios at WWE, and IMG’s industry-leading production experience and capabilities.”
Lee Fitting, EVP, of media & production at WWE, said: “We have long admired the tremendous MLS-IMG partnership – and the fantastic product and results it has generated over the years. We believe that WWE’s new state-of-the-art facilities will help take their collective capabilities to even greater heights.”
The WWE facility is part of TKO Group Holdings, which recently reached an agreement with Endeavor to acquire IMG, in a transaction expected to be completed in the first half of 2025.
Contact the writer of this story, Nick Webster, at moc.l1738203532labto1738203532ofdlr1738203532owedi1738203532sni@o1738203532fni1738203532