Major League Soccer (MLS) has announced it will be moving its broadcast studio to WWE Headquarters as part of a new direction to help elevate its media content.
MLS Productions – the media and broadcast arm of the soccer league – will now broadcast its digital and media content from the new production facility at WWE’s Headquarters in Stamford, Connecticut.
In partnership with IMG, the sports media entity will continue to produce live match and studio productions and programming for the 600 annual MLS games from the MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.
MLS Productions will focus this year on its capabilities, create efficiencies, broaden content offerings and centralise its broadcast content and graphics.
Seth Bacon, EVP of Media at MLS, 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.”
To advance its extensive broadcast operation, MLS and IMG will enter a multiyear partnership renewal that expands and builds upon their existing broadcast production relationship.
The Studios at WWE is a 30,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art production facility with five studios utilising the latest technologies, wide-ranging production amenities, and highlighted by a virtual production stage.
The new production facility at WWE HQ – The Studios at WWE – offers “best-in-class production offerings and new cutting-edge technology” to elevate production value. The MLS also confirmed that the new facility will allow it to add new programming for the upcoming 2025 season.
The move aligns under the TKO Group umbrella, as both WWE and IMG are both owned by the sports and entertainment conglomerate.
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.”