SPL, SAFF and IMG join forces in game-changing broadcast partnership

The Saudi Pro League (SPL) and Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) have announced a new five-year production partnership with IMG, a global sports, events, and representation company, for the Roshn Saudi League (RSL), King’s Cup, and Saudi Super Cup, starting from the 2024-25 season.

This season will mark a significant shift for the SPL and SAFF, as IMG takes on the role of broadcast producer for the RSL, King’s Cup, and Saudi Super Cup, in partnership with the SPL and SAFF, combining the expertise of local partners with IMG’s world-class production experience and capabilities. The strategic collaboration will ensure best-in-class production quality, innovation and consistency across all RSL, Saudi Super Cup, and King’s Cup matches.

The 2024-25 season broadcast of the RSL, King’s Cup, and Saudi Super Cup will feature more dynamic storytelling and captivating content that highlights the excitement of the matches and celebrates the rich culture and passion that drive the sport. This will enable partners to offer deeper insights, as well as more engaging and entertaining narratives, enhancing the viewing experience for fans around the world and fostering a deeper connection with the league.

As part of the production partnership, SPL and SAFF will serve and act as the host broadcaster for the King’s Cup and Saudi Super Cup. This collaboration ensures that these competitions will benefit from the same high standards of production quality and distribution expertise, further enhancing the viewing experience for fans both domestically and internationally.

IMG will also help SPL and SAFF to implement advanced remote production technologies, allowing leading producers to oversee matches across multiple cities on the same day, ensuring that the highest production standards are maintained regardless of location.

Omar Mugharbel, CEO of the Saudi Pro League, said: “Our new production partnership marks a significant step forward for the SPL as we continue our transformation and growth on and off the pitch. Our collaboration with IMG reflects our commitment to bring world-class production standards to Saudi football with the league the central host producer.

"By leveraging the expertise of IMG and maintaining strong partnerships with local and regional distributors, the SPL is poised to deliver an unparalleled football viewing experience to fans around the world through technology, innovation and talent.”

Barney Francis, EVP of Studios at IMG, added: “Saudi Pro League is one of the most exciting and fastest-growing leagues in global football, with fans around the world now tuning in to watch thrilling action between some of the game’s biggest stars. In today’s battle for attention, it’s critical for rightsholders to take control of their narrative and innovate.

"We are excited to help SPL take its content offering and storytelling to the next level for viewers and broadcasters, and to provide opportunities for local broadcast and production talent to be part of the journey.”

IMG produces content for some of the world’s biggest leagues, including Premier League, Major League Soccer for Apple TV, CBS’ UEFA Champions League and Europa League coverage, UFC, DP World Tour, The Ryder Cup, and The Open Championship. The company’s state-of-the-art studio facilities at Stockley Park in London are among Europe’s best-connected broadcast centres, powered by 100% renewable energy and broadcasting over 35,000 hours of content annually.

In addition to the new production partnership, IMG will continue to distribute the RSL’s media rights internationally for the 2024-25 season, having signed a two-year agreement at the start of the 2023-24 season. Last season, RSL matches were aired in more than 160 countries on more than 40 global platforms across six continents.

Matches were available on DAZN in multiple territories including Austria, Belgium, Canada, Germany, and the UK, as well as on major European broadcasters such as Canal+ (France), Sport TV (Portugal), La 7 (Italy), Marca.com (Spain), and Cosmote (Greece), among others. For the MENA region, SSC holds the linear TV rights, and the digital rights are managed through Shahid.

The SPL launched its transformation strategy in early 2023, aligning with Vision 2030’s broader sports objectives and aiming to position the RSL among the top performing football leagues globally. The strategy focuses on nurturing young talent, securing leading international footballers, and improving club governance while driving competitiveness on and off the pitch. The strategy outlines four main objectives:

1. Developing the sport and nurturing talent

2. Elevating fan experience and infrastructure

3. Enabling club growth and financial stability

4. Foster advancement in broadcasting, media, and commercial endeavours