Major League Soccer has announced a significant relocation of its production operations. Beginning in the 2025 season, the league will shift its production hub to WWE Headquarters in Stamford, Connecticut. This move is a key component of an expanded partnership with IMG, a global leader in sports production.
The new home for MLS Productions will be The Studios at WWE, a cutting-edge facility boasting advanced technology. This will serve as the central location for all live studio programming and content for the MLS Season Pass, the league's streaming platform on Apple TV.
The multi-year agreement with IMG builds upon their existing collaboration. IMG currently produces over 600 live MLS matches annually for the Season Pass, in addition to studio programming. The Studios at WWE, with its advanced virtual production capabilities and five dedicated studios, is designed to streamline MLS’s workflow.
The anticipated benefits include increased efficiency and a broader range of content offerings in both English and Spanish. This relocation represents a major upgrade for MLS, following the launch of the MLS Season Pass in 2023, a partnership with Apple that consolidated global match coverage and related content.
Previously, pre and post-game shows were produced at NEP’s Metropolis Studios in New York City. The Studios at WWE, part of TKO Group Holdings, covers 30,000 square feet and is equipped for modern broadcast needs. TKO Group Holdings is in the process of acquiring IMG, a deal expected to finalize in 2025.
Since its launch, the MLS Season Pass has relied on IMG and NEP for production. IMG's extensive portfolio includes partnerships with prominent organizations like the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, and UFC. Connecticut's strategic location near New York City and its attractive broadcast production tax credits contributed to the decision.