In a bold move to expand its sports and gaming media reach, Genius Sports has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Legend, a digital platform that specializes in monetizing sports audiences. The deal, valued at $1.2 billion, includes an upfront payment of $900 million, consisting of $800 million in cash and $100 million in stock, with an additional earnout of up to $300 million based on achieving profitability and cash flow milestones.

This acquisition marks a significant step in Genius Sports’ strategic plan to build a fully integrated sports and gaming media network. By merging Legend’s advanced technology with Genius Sports’ data and media assets, the company aims to create a leading platform for fan engagement and sports betting monetization. The deal will enhance Genius Sports’ ability to provide users with real-time access to relevant sportsbooks, gaming products, and advertisers, targeting audiences when they are most likely to act.

Accelerating Growth and Financial Performance

Genius Sports CEO Mark Locke stated that this acquisition will directly impact the company’s financial performance, improving both margins and free cash flow. The move is expected to push the company’s group revenue to approximately $1.1 billion by 2026, with a strong growth trajectory through 2028. Genius has also upped its revenue guidance, forecasting a 22% year-over-year growth in 2026, driven by the integration of Legend.

In its preliminary financial results for 2025, Genius reported $669 million in group revenue, marking a 31% increase from the previous year. Additionally, adjusted EBITDA for the year reached $136 million, a remarkable 59% year-on-year growth. With the inclusion of Legend, Genius anticipates even stronger financial performance, expecting group revenue to hit $1.6 billion by 2028, with a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 21%.

Legend, which generated 320 million annual visits and 118 million unique visitors in 2025, is a key player in the sports media space. The platform specializes in connecting sports fans with relevant betting and gaming opportunities at crucial moments, providing a seamless bridge between sports content and betting services. With its extensive audience and proprietary technology, Legend has successfully monetized sports audiences, creating predictable revenue streams through its network.

Legend’s founder, Nick Kisberg, expressed his excitement about the merger, emphasizing that the partnership with Genius Sports will unlock unparalleled growth opportunities for both companies. “Joining forces with Genius Sports brings together two world-class teams and gives us an even stronger platform to scale,” Kisberg said. The collaboration promises to strengthen Legend’s media presence while expanding its reach across Genius Sports’ vast global network.

Looking Ahead to a Digital Media Powerhouse

By integrating Legend’s expertise in digital marketing and sports content distribution, Genius Sports is positioning itself as a leader in the sports and gaming media industry. The company’s new digital ecosystem will allow for more efficient fan engagement and monetization, particularly through its innovative FANHub platform, which connects sports data, media, and betting partners.

With the acquisition of Legend, Genius Sports is poised to set a higher benchmark for the industry. The deal will enhance the company’s ability to offer more data, inventory, and audience opportunities, ultimately transforming its operations and positioning it as a key player in the rapidly evolving sports and gaming landscape.

Genius Sports has been expanding aggressively in recent years, and this acquisition is a clear indication of the company’s commitment to capturing a larger share of the sports media and gaming market. The integration of Legend into its portfolio will not only strengthen Genius Sports’ position in the sports betting sector but also enhance its overall media footprint, creating new opportunities for both revenue generation and customer engagement.

The deal also aligns with Genius Sports’ long-term goals, which include growing its market presence and achieving strong financial performance. With its increased scale and resources, the company is set to continue its upward trajectory, driven by a combination of innovative technology, strategic acquisitions, and a solid foundation in the sports and gaming sectors.