Major League Baseball (MLB) is taking its long-standing collaboration with Sportradar Group AG to the next level, unveiling an extended and expanded partnership set to launch with the 2025 season. This agreement cements Sportradar as MLB’s go-to partner for official data and audiovisual (AV) content distribution while fostering the league’s international expansion. As part of this evolution, MLB has also secured an equity stake in Sportradar, solidifying their strategic alignment and shared commitment to innovation in sports data and fan engagement.

Under the new arrangement, Sportradar will maintain exclusive rights to distribute MLB’s ultra-low latency data and AV content, including the sophisticated MLB Statcast data system. This content will reach a vast global network comprising over 800 sportsbook operators and 900 media outlets. With baseball gaining significant traction in markets such as Latin America and Asia and the continued rise of legal sports betting, this partnership positions MLB to expand its digital footprint and enhance its presence worldwide.

A critical component of the collaboration remains the integrity of the sport. Sportradar will continue to deploy its Universal Fraud Detection System (UFDS) to monitor global betting patterns, providing investigative support and educational programs to safeguard the game from potential threats.

Looking ahead, MLB and Sportradar are also joining forces to develop AI-driven innovations powered by advanced player tracking technology. These new digital experiences aim to deliver hyper-personalized, immersive interactions for baseball fans, bringing them closer to the action in unprecedented ways.

In exchange for the rights and services provided, Sportradar will pay annual licensing fees to MLB, while the league will be issued up to 1,855,724 Class A ordinary shares in Sportradar throughout the duration of the agreement, subject to standard conditions.

This extended partnership underscores MLB’s commitment to leveraging next-generation technology to enhance fan engagement, protect the integrity of the sport, and expand its global influence, ensuring baseball continues to evolve in the digital age.

Kenny Gersh, MLB Executive Vice President, Media & Business Development, said: “Sportradar has been a great partner to MLB, particularly helping us navigate the legalization and continued evolution of the global sports betting landscape. Over the course of our partnership, Sportradar has consistently developed great products utilizing MLB’s best-in-class data. MLB is delighted to continue innovating with Sportradar to create engaging products and services for MLB fans globally.”

Carsten Koerl, Chief Executive Officer, Sportradar, said: “We are thrilled to continue our long-standing partnership with MLB, and this agreement represents a new, exciting chapter in our journey together. Our collaboration is not only about leveraging cutting edge technology and content but also working together to create innovative products that enhance fan engagement and bring fans closer to the game. By combining our strengths, we can unlock new opportunities and reach more sports fans around the globe to shape the future of sports entertainment. This deal, which is immediately accretive to our business, will drive value for our shareholders as we continue to expand margins and generate strong cash flow.”

Sportradar has been a trusted partner of MLB since 2014, playing a key role in the league’s data and analytics ecosystem. Most recently, MLB integrated Sportradar’s Synergy Sports Coaching & Scouting solution to deliver advanced performance analysis, equipping all 30 clubs with cutting-edge insights to enhance player development and strategic decision-making.

The post Major League Baseball Elevates Sports Tech Strategy with Sportradar, Unlocking New Digital Opportunities appeared first on Travel And Tour World.