With already a global presence in soccer, sports data provider Opta is further cementing its position within the sport as it became the Official Data Partner of the United Soccer League on Wednesday.
The 29-team league, which is the third tier professional soccer organization in North America, agreed to a three-year partnership, which will kick off during the 2016 USL Championship on Oct. 23.
As part of the deal, London-based Opta will manage and deliver statistical analysis for all USL matches, with teams having the ability to integrate the platform’s data into its own websites. In addition, fans will be able to access the data on the USL site, too.
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“We are pleased to partner with Opta, whose expertise in sports data will enhance the intelligence of our players, coaches and teams while providing deep insights available to our passionate fans,” said Jake Edwards, President of the USL in a statement. “It is a huge benefit to the USL Digital Network and USL Productions, allowing us to meet and exceed the demand of our ever-growing supporter base as well as the appetite of today’s soccer consumer, who is equally driven by content and engagement.”
Opta, which is owned by digital sports media group Perform, will also provide additional press box statistics and the creation of social media graphics to teams and the league itself.
“Opta is delighted to enter this partnership with the USL, one of the fastest growing sports leagues in North America, who join our global portfolio of rights holders in soccer,” Angus McNab, Vice President of Content for Perform in North America, said in a statement. “USL’s sustainability and plan for strategic growth have impressed our team and position Opta to provide the tools which will enhance the professional game in the United States and Canada.”
In addition to the MLS and USL, Opta has data partnerships with the Barclay’s English Premier League, Football League Championship, Bundesliga and A-League.