A New Model for Sports Data – Breaking the Monopoly (Part 4)

In this four-part blog series, we dive into the challenges posed by the sports data monopoly. We’ll explore how major leagues, by selling exclusive rights to single providers, control the flow of information, inflating costs and stifling innovation. From the origins of these monopolies to their wide-reaching consequences, we’ll demonstrate why a fairer system is urgently needed. We’ll also propose a new model that benefits leagues, businesses, and fans alike.

By: Dotan Lazar

The current monopolistic control of sports data is unsustainable. Dominated by a few major providers, the system stifles competition, limits innovation, and burdens leagues, businesses, and fans. However, a new model can transform the industry by letting leagues control their data and fostering a competitive, innovative market.

While 90% of the world’s leagues don’t have exclusive data agreements, many struggle to monetize their data effectively. They fail to generate significant revenue without resources or infrastructure, leaving them vulnerable to issues like match-fixing and integrity breaches. Underfunded leagues face higher risks of fixed events, undermining the sport’s integrity.

A better approach would make leagues the “asset owners” of their data. Instead of exclusive deals, leagues could collect data directly or through third-party partners and distribute it to media, betting companies, and other stakeholders. This model could operate on a fixed-price or revenue-sharing basis, allowing leagues to maximize income while ensuring data accessibility. For example, betting companies could pay a percentage of revenue generated from using the data, while media outlets pay a fixed fee.

This creates a steady revenue stream, reducing reliance on questionable funding sources and improving sport integrity. Breaking monopolies would foster competition, drive down prices, and improve service quality. Error rates, currently between 1.8% and 3%, could decrease as companies compete to deliver accurate, reliable data.

Even small errors can have significant consequences in betting and media, so innovation and accuracy are critical. Leagues would gain control over their data, enabling them to explore new partnerships and revenue streams. They could invest in better technology and infrastructure, further reducing errors and improving data quality.

Fans would benefit from lower live scores, statistics, and analytics costs, enhancing their engagement with sports. This model would also encourage leagues to innovate. They would need efficient, effective data collection and distribution methods to remain competitive, driving technological advancements across the industry.

In conclusion, the current monopolistic system must be reformed. By adopting a model that empowers leagues, fosters competition, and prioritizes innovation, we can create a fairer, more sustainable future for sports data. It’s time to demand a better system for everyone involved.