Sportec Solutions has secured a contract as the video assistant referee (VAR) provider for US Major League Soccer (MLS) from the start of the 2024 season onwards.
The Bavaria-headquartered sportstech company will provide VAR services across all 530 annual MLS matches and 77 leagues Cup fixtures as well as the yearly All Star Game.
VAR has become a standard feature of various global sports leagues – although not always a popular one among some segments of fans – and Sportec Solutions has become a prominent supplier of the technology.
Jeff Agoos, MLS’ SVP, Competition & Medical Administration, said: “As we kick-off the 29th season of Major League Soccer, we are thrilled to have Sportec Solutions as our technology provider for video review, medical sideline review, and cutting-edge data capabilities.
“For the first time in our league’s history, these services will be managed in one central location on match days, allowing for industry-leading technology and enhanced fan experiences, all while reinforcing our mission to advance our competition with integrity and innovation.”
The partnership steps up MLS’ collaboration with Sportech Solutions, coming a year after the company clinched a deal to collect data feeds from MLS, MLS NEXT Pro and Leagues Cup matches using MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.
Sportec Solutions is also shoring up its position in its home market of Germany, having signed a deal with the Bundesliga – one of Europe’s biggest football leagues – to provide VAR technology.
“It’s an exciting time for Sportec Solutions as we continue to roll out our FIFA-approved VAR technology in leagues across the world,” commented Christian Holzer, Managing Director, Sportec Solutions.
“We’re delighted to further strengthen our relationship with MLS at this exciting time in the league’s evolution, and we are excited to help them create a new paradigm in centralised, league-controlled soccer technology.
“We are proud of the work we have done over the last 12 months and are grateful for the support and trust given to us by MLS. Opening our US HQ is a significant milestone in Sportec Solutions’ journey and is a clear demonstration of our commitment to expand to further leagues across North and South America.”
