MGM Resorts Supports Japan's Sports Sector

MGM Resorts has stepped up with efforts to gain a foothold in the Japanese market after becoming the title sponsor of tournaments opening the season in the Major League Baseball (MLB) in the country.

MGM said it plans to build a unique, world-class integrated resort in the country after the government passed a law to legalize the casino industry, despite considerable opposition from politicians and the public.

However, the competition is quite high, since there will be only three integrated resorts. With this in mind, MGM, like other operators, tries to use any means to circumvent the other gambling companies in this “race”.

As part of the MGM MLB starting series on March 20-21, the Tokyo Dome will have two games between Oakland Athletics and Seattle Mariners, as well as competitions between MLB teams and Japanese top league baseball clubs. The league said that the title sponsorship agreement is supported by the MLB Players Association.

The American League announced a multi-year partnership with MGM Resorts International in November. It includes the sponsorship of the organization and the team, the use of data, as well as promotion on the MLB-owned media platforms.

Last month, former Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval was introduced to MGM Resorts International's new president for global gambling development, with a particular focus on the Japanese market.

In addition to this sponsorship agreement, MGM Resorts is already planning to play a prominent role in supporting massive MLB baseball events in Japan. One of these events will be the Road Show.