Buoyed by the conviction that its fan base is younger, more global and more technologically savvy than that of more traditional pro sports leagues, Major League Soccer on Tuesday unveiled a 10-year media rights deal with Apple that’ll be anchored by a single, digital hub for all MLS, Leagues Cup and MLS Next Pro matches.
Speaking to Sports Illustrated on Tuesday, MLS commissioner Don Garber emphasized that the commitment isn’t a traditional broadcast arrangement, wherein a league exchanges the rights to its games and content for a negotiated rate. Rather, MLS and Apple have entered a partnership where each is incentivized to grow the business.