Birmingham City co-owner Tom Wagner has called on the English Football League (EFL) to secure a single global broadcast deal, arguing it would grow the competition and showcase its 'giant underdog mentality' to a worldwide audience.
Speaking at The Summit during Leaders Week in London, Wagner said there was an 'enormous opportunity' for the EFL to create a broader distribution platform, possibly with streaming services like Netflix or Amazon. He emphasised that the quality of football and compelling storylines would appeal to international fans, particularly in the United States.
Wagner, who led a consortium including NFL legend Tom Brady in taking over Birmingham in 2023, believes the EFL should focus on expanding revenues and audiences rather than on a redistribution deal with the Premier League, which has stalled for two years. 'If we focus on growing the sport, we all win,' he said.
The American businessman also highlighted the emerging rivalry between Birmingham and Wrexham, which is owned by actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. He praised the owners and described the club as a 'wonderful place' to visit and enjoy a football match.
