SBC News Voice of the Sports Betting Industry
Major League Soccer (MLS) has moved to expand its data and integrity capacities by confirming long-term technology partner Stats Perform as lead data rights distributor, for media, betting and broadcast industries.
Updating stakeholders, the MLS confirms a new ‘comprehensive agreement’ with Stats Perform utilising the data management systems of Runningball, OPTA and further integrity provisions as the exclusive rights holders to collect, analyse and distribute all syndicated MLS match/tournament data.
The exclusive partnership will be supported by Stats Perform’s advanced AI capabilities to create a superior fan, spectator and wagering experiences for MLS’ diverse commercial partners operating across media and wagering.
“We’re delighted to announce we have been chosen as the exclusive global data partner for MLS and U.S. Soccer,” said Alex Rice, Chief Rights Officer at Stats Perform.
“As a trusted partner of MLS for over 10 years and U.S. Soccer for three years, we look forward to delivering the highest quality data to create the best experiences for fans and bettors, while continuing to support the growth of soccer in North America.”
Supporting the expanded partnership, for the first time, MLS and U.S. Soccer will be maintained by an exclusive Stats Perform ultra-fast data feed developed for sports betting incumbents.
Stats Perform will continue to maintain MLS integrity provisions, working with MLS media teams and the betting industry to protect MLS competitions from corruption.
“Soccer United Marketing is proud to facilitate the execution of this expansive, long-term partnership between Stats Perform, MLS and U.S. Soccer,” said Chris Schlosser, MLS SVP, Media.
“We are excited to partner with Stats Perform to create MLS and U.S. Soccer’s first official data feed optimized for Sports Betting. As the betting landscape continues to evolve, it is important that quality and accurate data are available to power sports betting experiences and Stats Perform is a proven global leader in the creation of soccer betting data.”
Further league benefits see The MLS expand Stats Perform’s coverage remit, which will include over 3,000 US Soccer Development Academy matches with a view to unlocking the data-driven processes for the Federation and its clubs, furthering US Soccer’s strategic approach to player development.
“The partnership with Stats Perform further represents U.S. Soccer’s commitment to using data and technology to grow the game domestically,” said U.S. Soccer Director of Analytics and Research Ross Moses.
“Data quality and coverage are central to our objectives to win and grow the fanbase, and Stats Perform has shown to be a leader in the space. With coverage of not only the senior national teams but also youth and club competitions like the U.S. Open Cup, we continue to push ourselves to find competitive advantages on the field and build our connection with fans off it.”
