PBR Teams scales 2026 production with 30-camera kit and drones

The technical expansion reflects PBR's maturation from a niche circuit into a high-production-value league suitable for major network partners. By significantly increasing camera density and adopting low-angle robotics, PBR is standardizing a visual language that mirrors the intensity of Tier-1 stick-and-ball sports. This scale is necessary as the league balances three distinct distribution channels — linear broadcast (CBS, The CW), streaming (Paramount+), and high-energy in-arena entertainment. For the broader industry, it demonstrates how specialized sports can leverage robotic automation and RF flexibility to manage complex multi-platform delivery with a lean onsite crew. Watch for the debut of the Keyport Keys graphics package as a primary brand differentiator during the 2026 season.

The production ramp-up for the 2026 season coincides with a significant commercial and structural expansion for the league. Per Sports Business Journal in March 2026, PBR Teams owners unanimously approved expanding the league from 10 to 12 teams for the 2027 season. This growth follows a 600% surge in franchise values since the league's 2022 inception, with new expansion bids expected to exceed $50 million, up from the original $3 million entry points. Recent transactions, including Marc Lasry’s acquisition of the N.Y. Mavericks and Talor Gooch’s purchase of the Oklahoma Wildcatters, were valued at approximately $22.5 million each.

Media distribution has also stabilized through long-term high-profile agreements. PBR entered a five-year media rights deal with Paramount in November 2025, making Paramount+ the primary streaming home for the premier Unleash The Beast tour through 2030. This sits alongside a separate two-year agreement with The CW, signed in July 2025, which established the network as the exclusive broadcast home for Saturday and Sunday PBR Teams events. These deals were brokered by IMG, the media agency owned by PBR’s parent company, TKO Group Holdings.

Commercially, the league is reporting record engagement metrics. Per PBR and TKO reports in July 2026, sponsorship revenue for the Teams series has increased 386% since its launch. National partners now count 21 major brands, including Ram Trucks, Monster Energy, and Anheuser-Busch. Viewership reflects this momentum; PBR programming reached 28 million viewers nationwide during the 2025 season. To support this growth, PBR is also adjusting roster rules for the 2026 season, including clearer visa-related guidelines for international riders and a reduction in reserve roster spots to stimulate the free agency pool.