News Corp. and The Associated Press announced Thursday that they have formed a joint venture, STATS LLC, to produce sports data and content. The venture will combine STATS Inc., the country’s leading sports information and statistical analysis company, owned by News Corp., and MegaSports, AP’s multimedia sports service.

Under the new agreement, News Corp. and AP will each own half of the joint venture.

At the same time, Fox Interactive Media announced Thursday that it has agreed to acquire Scout Media, the parent company of Scout.com, an online sports network, and Scout Publishing, producer of 47 local sports magazines.

“With its insider, fan-based focus, Scout.com is an ideal complement to FoxSports.com’s dedication to national coverage and is a perfect fit with our broadcast and cable properties on the local and national level,” said Fox Interactive Media President Ross Levinsohn.