Premier League signs multi-year deal with VR developer Rezzil
The English Premier League (EPL) has this week announced a four-year partnership with Rezzil, a virtual reality (VR) software developer that specializes in the production of sports gaming software for athlete training and game analysis.
The partnership will see the Premier League and Rezzil work together on the development of a VR game, which is expected to be launched later this year. The game will place users on the pitch and in the boots of their favorite Premier League players, offering fans a unique opportunity to recreate iconic Premier League goals and moments from a VR perspective.
Rezzil applications are widely used in professional football and by many Premier League clubs as well as other leagues and sports. Furthermore, Rezzil’s software can integrate directly with Premier League match data, which allows clubs to adapt the software to re-create match scenarios and replay them through a VR headset.
The software also has applications for broadcasters and the wider gaming market, as match data can be used to bring viewers and gamers closer to the action on the pitch, according to the company.
Commenting on the partnership, Will Brass, the Premier League’s Chief Commercial Officer, said: “We are excited about the ongoing development of VR technology within football. Rezzil are highly respected in the field and have developed an excellent reputation with training products that are being used by many Premier League clubs alongside leading sports teams and leagues around the world.
“The applications for this technology are expanding quickly and this partnership will see the Premier League working with Rezzil on products that can help redefine player, fan and viewer experiences.”
The partnership will also see the Premier League take an equity stake in Rezzil. The exact equity stake amount was not disclosed in the announcement, but the Premier League stated that the investment will place the two companies at the forefront of new developments in sports-related VR and XR technology.
Andy Etches, Rezzil Co-Founder, said: “We are thrilled to embark on this new partnership with the Premier League. By combining our expertise in VR technology with the unparalleled excitement of Premier League football, we are looking forward to supporting the Premier League’s fan and player engagement ambitions. Working hand in hand together, we’re poised to bring VR technology to football in ways never seen before.”
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