The global sports and entertainment company, IMG has announced a new agreement to exclusively handle the National Football League‘s (NFL) media rights in over 30 international markets across Asia and Europe.
As the NFL seeks new markets for development, this move will strive to broaden its coverage and enhance worldwide involvement.
As part of the new three-year deal, which commences in 2024, IMG will oversee the NFL’s network of broadcast partnerships across regions for the duration of the current rights cycle. IMG will also provide strategic assistance and recommendations on the regional and local media landscape.
Terence Ihm, Director of International Business Development at the NFL, commented on the deal, said, “We’re thrilled to be working with IMG in our efforts to expand the NFL’s media footprint in over 30 international markets across Asia and Europe. Together with help from IMG, we will strategically and effectively reach new audiences and current fans around the world in the seasons ahead.”
Rebecca Levin, VP of Media for North America at IMG, commented, “The NFL is home to some of the most valuable media rights in world sport. Harnessing our expertise as global media specialists, with local experts, we look forward to working with the NFL to drive further value from its media rights in these international territories.”
This arrangement is the latest in a series of collaborations between the NFL and Endeavor/IMG. IMG’s digital team manages the football league’s social media profiles in the United Kingdom, Africa, and France. IMG also oversees the NFL’s licensing programme in Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and the Middle East. The entity also offers hospitality onsite at games, as well as represents athletes, players, coaches, and on-air talent through WME Sports, which is owned and operated by the cruise line and airline channel Sport 24.
The NFL’s International Series begins on Sunday, October 1, when Jacksonville Jaguars take on Atlanta Falcons at the Wembley Stadium.