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UK Regulator Opens Review Into Sportradar–IMG Arena Merger

By  |  July 15, 2025

The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has opened the floor to public comments regarding Sportradar’s proposed acquisition of IMG Arena, marking the beginning of its initial review of the high-profile sports data and media deal.

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    Announced in March 2025, the transaction would see Nasdaq-listed Sportradar take control of IMG Arena, a division of Endeavor Group. IMG Arena currently manages media and data rights for over 70 major sports properties. As part of the deal, Sportradar is set to receive assets valued at $125 million, while Endeavor intends to inject an additional $100 million to fulfill its contractual obligations to various rights holders, according to a statement.

    The CMA began its “invitation to comment” period on July 11. This phase allows interested parties and stakeholders to submit input on how the merger might influence market competition in the UK. The feedback window is open until July 25 and will inform the regulator’s Phase 1 inquiry under the Enterprise Act 2002, per a statement from the CMA.

    A central concern in the review is whether the deal might significantly alter the competitive landscape, particularly in areas such as sports technology, betting data services, and media licensing. The regulator is examining if the transaction qualifies as a “relevant merger situation” and whether it could lead to a reduction in market competition.

    Sportradar already plays a major role in global sports data, with partnerships spanning organizations like the NBA, UEFA, and Major League Baseball. Adding IMG Arena’s portfolio — which includes rights to events such as Wimbledon, the PGA Tour, and all four Grand Slam tennis tournaments — would further bolster its already substantial footprint.

    Industry observers warn that such consolidation could give Sportradar increased leverage over pricing and distribution models, potentially squeezing out smaller competitors. According to a statement, the CMA is closely evaluating the risk that this merger could place Sportradar in a dominant position across several service categories, including live streaming and fan engagement platforms.

    Source: Gambling News