Audacy and Cumulus Media have announced the merger of Infinity Sports Network and BetMGM Network into a singular network beginning Monday December 29. The announcement comes along with an extension to the partnership between Audacy and Cumulus Media’s Westwood One, the sole distributor of both Audacy owned networks.
According to a release, beginning December 29 the new network will be called Westwood One Sports in correlation with Westwood One assuming more control overseeing content and programming of the new network. The decision to merge the two networks was made in partnership between all entities.
“Westwood One Sports has always been synonymous with the biggest moments in sports audio,” said Collin Jones, President, Westwood One & EVP Corporate Strategy & Development, Cumulus Media. “Launching Westwood One Sports 24/7 programming strengthens that legacy and positions us to deliver unmatched coverage and commentary to fans coast-to-coast. We’re excited to work with Audacy to make this transition seamless and impactful.”
Under this new partnership, Westwood One will assume programming and distribution for the majority of the lineup of syndicated sports programming. This includes The Jim Rome Show, anchoring the coveted 3 PM – 6 PM ET weekday slot. Audacy will continue to produce popular BetMGM Network programs, including You Better You Bet with Nick Kostos (9 AM – 12 PM ET), BetMGM Tonight (6 PM – 11 PM ET) and additional weekend programming as part of the Westwood One Sports roster.
BetMGM will remain a presenting partner and the exclusive sportsbook partner of these programs. The full programming lineup will be announced in the coming weeks.
“Audacy and Westwood One have a long, storied history of collaboration. Today’s evolution of our national sports partnership is that next chapter in our commitment to our hundreds of affiliates, their listeners, and our client partners,” said Chris Oliviero, Chief Business Officer, Audacy. “Be it local or national, broadcast or digital, opinion content or play by play. We continue to smartly look at ways to enhance our leadership position in sports content.”
Westwood One Sports’ 24/7 network will continue to deliver unmatched live coverage, expert commentary, and real-time sports programming to millions of listeners nationwide. This extends a partnership between Westwood One and Audacy that first began with the launch of CBS Sports Radio in 2012. Westwood One has handled sales and distribution for the network since its launch/
The initial press release didn’t mention what the future plans are for Maggie Gray, Andrew Perloff, Zach Gelb or other on-air talent who currently make up Infinity’s lineup. This is a developing story. Barrett Media will update when more information becomes available.
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