ABG Acquires Neil Leifer's Prolific Photography Catalog
Authentic Brands Group today announced the acquisition of Neil Leifer’s prolific collection of photography and fine art business. Through this partnership, ABG will own and manage the rights to the entire Neil Leifer photography collection, which includes an expansive archive of iconic sports, entertainment and historic photography from around the world.
Leifer’s photography career spans 60-plus years and began while he was still a teenager when he captured the game-winning touchdown in the 1958 NFL Title game, also known as “The Greatest Game Ever Played” on his 16th birthday. His resume includes photos from over 15 Olympic Games, 4 FIFA World Cup soccer tournaments, 17 Kentucky Derbies, 15 Masters tournaments, countless World Series games, 13 Super Bowls and every important heavyweight boxing title fight since 1960. Additionally, Leifer has captured history’s most notable figures and events including The Royal Wedding of Princess Diana and Prince Charles, President Ronald and Nancy Reagan on Inauguration Day in 1981, John F. Kennedy, Lyndon Johnson and Fidel Castro. He has had 170 pictures published on the cover of Sports Illustrated, the most coveted real estate in sports media.
“I have been incredibly fortunate that my career has allowed me to bear witness to so many monumental events in history and to have a body of work that connects with so many people,” said Leifer.
“I am very proud that my photography collection will be preserved by ABG, a company that values heritage, legacy and art,” Leifer added.
Leifer is perhaps most well known for having documented Muhammad Ali’s career, capturing photos of Ali as an up-and-coming boxer named Cassius Clay through his rise to superstardom when he earned his title as the “Greatest of All Time.” This treasured collection includes the shot of Ali towering over his defeated opponent, Sonny Liston; one of the most iconic images in sports history.
Leifer’s extensive photography catalog will come to life across licensed merchandise, endorsements and media and will be utilized to enhance the rich storytelling around key partnerships. “We are honored to be entrusted with Neil’s unparalleled catalog and legacy,” said Corey Salter, Chief Operating Officer, ABG. “We are excited to share his life’s work with fans and new audiences around the world.”
For more information, please visit www.neilleifer.com.
