In a groundbreaking move, U.S. Soccer and Sportradar have joined forces in an exclusive, multi-year partnership aimed at catapulting the federation’s data distribution to new heights on a global scale. The collaboration, announced after a rigorous selection process, signifies a pivotal moment for soccer in the United States.
Enhancing Data Distribution Worldwide
U.S. Soccer has strategically chosen Sportradar to enhance and expand the global distribution of its data and content. This dynamic collaboration is poised to bring the federation’s offerings to a wider audience, fostering a deeper connection with existing fans and attracting the next generation of National Team supporters.
Under the terms of the agreement, Sportradar gains exclusive rights to collect, license, and distribute U.S. Soccer’s official betting and media data. This includes live AV streaming of U.S. Soccer competitions for betting purposes, accessible outside of the U.S. The partnership empowers U.S. Soccer to commercialize its valuable data and content through Sportradar’s extensive network of over 900 regulated betting operators and 350 media clients.
Monetization Opportunities and Fan Engagement
The collaboration extends beyond data distribution, with U.S. Soccer and Sportradar set to co-create bespoke data-driven solutions. These solutions aim to deepen existing fan relationships, engage the next generation of supporters, and unlock additional opportunities for monetization, ultimately driving further growth for the sport.
Key Highlights of the Partnership
Match Coverage: The partnership covers more than 111 matches per year, spanning U.S. Men’s (USMNT) and Women’s (USWNT) National Team competitions, including prestigious events like the SheBelieves Cup and the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.
Upcoming Events: The timing of the deal aligns with several major global soccer events set to take place in the U.S., including the 2024 Copa America, the 2024 Concacaf W Gold Cup, the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup, and the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup Bid: U.S. Soccer, in collaboration with the Mexican Football Federation, has launched a joint bid to host the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, further elevating the significance of this partnership.
Integrity Services and Anti-Match Fixing Measures
U.S. Soccer has also enlisted Sportradar’s Integrity Services to ensure the integrity of the sport. This includes bet monitoring through the Universal Fraud Detection System (UFDS), Intelligence & Investigation (I&I) Services, Integrity Audit, and Education & Prevention, including anti-match fixing workshops.
Industry Insights and Future Value Creation
Eric Conrad, Executive Vice President of Strategic Partnerships & Content at Sportradar, expressed confidence in the partnership’s ability to bring soccer to a larger audience both domestically and internationally. He highlighted the role of fan engagement through betting, emphasizing Sportradar’s position to effectively monetize these rights.
Ross Moses, Vice President of Business Ventures at U.S. Soccer, emphasized the massive impact of the Sportradar partnership. He recognized the partnership’s role in accelerating the growth of soccer in the U.S., especially in the realms of gaming and technology.
Sportradar’s Commitment to Soccer Innovation
This collaboration with U.S. Soccer follows Sportradar’s recent deals with prominent soccer entities such as CONMEBOL, FIFA, UEFA, Bundesliga, and the Asian Football Confederation. The company’s commitment to being an innovative sports technology and betting partner is evident, driving new revenues, engaging fans, and safeguarding the integrity of competitions.
The U.S. Soccer and Sportradar partnership marks a transformative moment for soccer in the United States, combining data-driven strategies, fan engagement initiatives, and integrity measures. As soccer continues to gain prominence globally, this collaboration positions both entities at the forefront of innovation in the sport.