Fremantle and the US-based Women’s Pro Baseball League (WPBL) announce that we have entered into a strategic partnership that will see us collaborate across numerous sectors of business.
In this integrated approach, we will provide development, production, distribution, digital, sponsorship representation, licensing and marketing partnership support across the league. In addition, we will oversee shoulder programming, documentaries, and a range of engaging entertainment properties aimed at informing and connecting fans with all happenings across the league.
The WPBL is the only professional women’s baseball league in America and will launch with six teams for its inaugural season beginning in the spring of 2026. This collaboration establishes a landmark relationship between a sports league and Fremantle, ensuring a comprehensive approach to the WPBL’s growth, success, and visibility, both on and off the field.
"Fremantle’s new alliance with the WPBL marks a significant milestone in the continued advancement and diversification of our sports business, and we are so proud to be a part of their journey to redefine women’s professional baseball," said Jennifer Mullin, Fremantle CEO. "We are excited to play a pivotal role in helping elevate the league and its athletes, and we look forward to contributing to its success at every level."
This partnership announcement comes on the heels of the WPBL’s recent news that global women’s sports leader Assia Grazioli-Venier has joined the League as Chair, and that Muse Sport - the sports advisory arm of her firm, Muse Capital - has also joined the league as an official advisory partner.
"The partnership with Fremantle is a major inflection point for the WPBL as we shape the future of women’s baseball," said Assia Grazioli-Venier, Chair of the WPBL. "By aligning with one of the world’s largest media companies, we’re amplifying the voices and stories of our league and players in ways never seen before in the sport."
This partnership with the WPBL is part of our strategic plan to further solidify our presence in the sports arena with the recent launch of our global division, Fremantle Sports, which is being led by Owain Walbyoff who was recently named Director of Sports. With a focus on non-scripted and factual documentaries, and new digital formats, Fremantle Sports will look to significantly expand our sports offerings. By leveraging our extensive creative network, Fremantle Sports will execute on the best sports projects on a global scale, while allowing sports talent and rights holders to engage with their global fanbase.
WPBL recently announced their upcoming recruiting and scouting camp efforts, demonstrating the league's commitment to building a strong, competitive foundation as they march towards their opening day in spring of 2026. In the lead-up to its inaugural season, the WPBL has several significant milestones planned, including a nationwide tryout and scouting process launching this summer, with over 300 players already registered to participate. Following the tryouts, WPBL will host its inaugural player draft in the Fall, followed shortly thereafter by a high-profile showcase all-star weekend featuring a series of special events.
This groundbreaking deal, which brings together one of the world's leading entertainment companies with the nation’s newest and most dynamic sports league, was spearheaded by Tim Grau, EVP of Business and Legal Affairs for Fremantle.
