In a significant development for the Premier League, club representatives unanimously voted at a recent Shareholders’ meeting to create a new in-house media operations business. This initiative, set to launch at the beginning of the 2026/27 season, will centralize all international media content production and distribution activities, a service that has been managed in collaboration with IMG through Premier League Productions (PLP) since 2004.
For two decades, PLP has served as a vital link between Premier League football and broadcasters, captivating an audience of hundreds of millions across over 180 countries. The partnership with IMG has led to numerous innovations in live events production, enhancing the viewing experience for fans with cutting-edge technologies and a focus on high-quality coverage of all 380 Premier League matches each season.
Paul Molnar, Chief Media Officer of the Premier League, expressed gratitude towards IMG for their exemplary partnership, highlighting their contributions to broadcasting quality and innovation. He emphasized that the transition to an in-house operation is geared toward ensuring a superior content service for the league’s partners and its global fanbase.
Barney Francis, EVP of Studios at IMG, acknowledged the transformative impact of their collaboration. He cited various advancements over the years, including significant shifts in broadcasting technology—from standard definition to 4K—and the launch of several innovative platforms that have helped elevate the Premier League’s profile worldwide.
The decision to move forward with an in-house media operation promises to further enhance the way fans engage with Premier League football. As the league prepares for this major transition, further details will be shared in the lead-up to its launch in 2026.
This shift represents a hopeful and strategic move that could solidify the Premier League’s ability to connect with audiences on a deeper level, ensuring quality programming that resonates with fans across the globe. With the focus on innovation and quality, the Premier League appears well-positioned to continue expanding its international reach and enhancing its appeal in the competitive sports broadcasting landscape.