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MLS Takes Slice of Landmark Apple TV Deal
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Major League soccer (MLS) is poised too receive a percentage of subscription revenue from its groundbreaking ten-year broadcasting deal with Apple, according to sources familiar with the negotiations. This marks a meaningful shift from the initial agreement,where MLS received a guaranteed fee regardless of subscriber numbers.The move reflects the league’s growing confidence in the partnership and the increasing value of its content.
The original deal, announced in 2022, saw Apple become the sole distributor of MLS matches globally via its Apple TV platform. It represented a bold move for both parties, aiming to reach a wider audience and build a direct-to-consumer model.This is a transformative moment for Major League Soccer,
said Don Garber, MLS commissioner, at the time of the declaration.
Financial Implications and Timeline
The renegotiation comes as Apple TV’s subscriber numbers for MLS Season Pass have exceeded expectations. While Apple has not publicly disclosed specific figures, industry analysts estimate the service has attracted hundreds of thousands of subscribers. The exact percentage MLS will receive remains confidential, but sources indicate it will be a substantial share of the incremental revenue generated beyond a certain subscriber threshold.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Original Apple/MLS deal Announced | June 2022 |
| MLS Season Pass Launches on apple TV | February 2023 |
| Renegotiation Discussions Begin | Late 2023 |
| Agreement on Revenue Share Reached | Early 2024 |
Did You Know?
The Apple/MLS deal was the first time a major north American sports league had partnered with a streaming service for exclusive global distribution of its games.
Impact on League and Clubs
The revenue share agreement is expected to considerably boost the financial health of MLS and its clubs. It provides a direct incentive for the league to continue growing its subscriber base and enhancing the quality of its broadcasts. This could lead to increased investment in player growth, stadium infrastructure, and marketing initiatives.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Apple TV’s subscriber numbers for MLS Season Pass – they will be a key indicator of the deal’s success and future negotiations.
Future of MLS Broadcasting
This renegotiation signals a broader trend in sports broadcasting,where leagues are seeking greater control over their content and a larger share of the revenue generated from streaming services. The success of the Apple/MLS partnership could serve as a model for other leagues looking to explore direct-to-consumer options.
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The deal’s long-term implications are still unfolding, but it’s clear that MLS is positioning itself for continued growth and success in the evolving landscape of sports broadcasting.
What are your thoughts on MLS’s decision to renegotiate its Apple TV deal? Do you think this model will become more common in other sports leagues?
Background and Trends in Sports streaming
The shift towards streaming in sports is driven by changing consumer habits and the desire for greater adaptability and accessibility. Customary cable television subscriptions are declining, while streaming services are gaining popularity. This trend has created new opportunities for leagues and teams to connect directly with fans and generate revenue. The Apple/MLS deal is a prime example of this evolving landscape, demonstrating the potential of direct-to-consumer streaming models.
Frequently Asked questions about the MLS Apple Deal
- What is MLS Season Pass? MLS Season Pass is a subscription service on Apple TV that provides access to all MLS matches globally.
- How much does MLS Season Pass cost? The price varies by region, but typically
