The Australian Ice Hockey League (AIHL) recently secured a significant agreement with Sportradar, a prominent player in the sports data industry. This multi-year collaboration focuses on data and media rights.
Essentially, Sportradar gains the ability to distribute AIHL content globally (excluding Australia and New Zealand) through the conclusion of 2024.
However, the partnership extends beyond mere game broadcasts. Sportradar will introduce its advanced technology to the AIHL, including its “Connected Stadium” platform. Picture cameras autonomously filming the action, enhancing the visual appeal of the games.
The AIHL is heavily investing in this technological upgrade to deliver a substantially more engaging experience for spectators. By 2024, they aim to implement “Connected Stadium” in a minimum of six venues, including the renowned O’Brien Icehouse in Melbourne.
Furthermore, to ensure fairness, the AIHL will gain access to Sportradar’s tools designed for bet monitoring and detecting any suspicious activities.
This alliance solidifies Sportradar’s position as a leader in ice hockey data and content. They are already partnered with ten leagues worldwide, encompassing major organizations like the NHL and European leagues.
David Edwards, the head of media and partnerships at Sportradar, stated…
This innovation will revolutionize the AIHL. The goal is to expand the fanbase, both domestically in Australia and within important global markets. The objective is to increase ice hockey’s visibility and generate enthusiasm for the sport.
This collaboration presents a significant chance to demonstrate our capabilities. We are certain that our knowledge and technological advancements can significantly impact sports entities and leagues within the area.”
AIHL Chairman Peter Hartshorne further stated:
“Our aim is to substantially grow the AIHL, incorporating two additional teams over the next three years. Achieving this requires a leading technology collaborator who can assist us in maximizing the league’s complete business prospects.
Sportradar possesses a demonstrated history of success working alongside some of the most prominent names in athletics, and we are assured that their proficiency will yield immediate tangible outcomes for us.”
