The Premier League has inked a four-year partnership with virtual reality software developer Rezzil and also taken an equity stake in the Manchester company.
Rezzil specialises in the production of sports gaming software for athlete training and game analysis within VR. Its applications are widely used in professional football and by many Premier League clubs – including title contenders Manchester City and Liverpool – as well as other leagues and sports such as the NBA and NFL.
The Premier League and Rezzil will 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 favourite Premier League players, offering fans a unique opportunity to recreate iconic Premier League goals and moments from within the perspective of VR.
Rezzil’s software integrates directly with Premier League match data, allowing clubs to adapt the software to re-create match scenarios and replay them through a VR headset. The software also has groundbreaking applications for broadcasters and the wider gaming market who can use the match data to bring viewers and gamers closer to the action on the pitch.
“We are excited about the ongoing development of VR technology within football,” said Will Brass, the Premier League’s chief commercial officer. “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.
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.”