The rise of smart stadiums

Smart stadiums are revolutionising the fan’s experience in sports across the globe. With fan-engagement being an integral part of sport, many stadiums and businesses are looking to invest in connectivity and interactivity. 

The use of IoT (Internet of Things) devices, mobile applications, virtual reality and enhanced connectivity are paramount to the revolution currently occurring in stadiums across the world.

What is a smart stadium?

A smart stadium leverages advanced technologies to enhance the experience of visitors and streamline operations.

These stadiums are equipped with a wide range of technological solutions, including high-speed internet, IoT devices, digital signage, mobile connectivity, and advanced security systems.

The primary goal of a smart stadium is to create a more engaging, convenient, and safe environment for fans attending sporting events and concerts.

What are the benefits of a smart stadium?

There are many benefits of upgrading to a smart stadium, including seamless connectivity, interactive mobile applications, digital displays and data analytics which can help with crowd flow:

Seamless connectivity

With mobile connectivity and high-speed internet access, fans can share their experiences in real-time, access instant replays, and engage with interactive content.

This also opens up new opportunities for digital marketing and sponsorships.

Improve fan engagement

Smart stadiums use technologies such as AR (Augmented Reality) for interactive experiences, DAS (Distributed Antenna Systems) and high-density Wi-Fi for uninterrupted connectivity, and apps for in-seat food and merchandise ordering. 

This improves the overall experience for attendees by making it more interactive, convenient and engaging.

Safety and Security

Advanced surveillance systems, crowd management tools, and emergency response solutions ensure a safer environment for every fan.

Real-time monitoring helps stadium security identify and address potential risks quickly.

Operational efficiency

By integrating IoT devices and using data analytics, stadiums can optimise operations such as energy usage, waste management, and crowd control.

Smart lighting, smart pitch irrigation, and smart HVAC systems can also contribute to more sustainable and cost-effective facilities’ management.

Sustainability initiatives

Many smart stadiums focus on sustainability, using technologies to reduce water usage, energy consumption, and waste.

This not only lowers operational costs but also aligns with broader environmental goals.

Smart stadium technology

Having explained the benefits of a smart stadium, we can now look at the technology that is powering stadiums to improve the fan experience:

In-Building Solutions

In-building solutions play a pivotal role in transforming fan experiences in stadiums by delivering high capacity mobile connectivity throughout.

These solutions ensure that attendees have a seamless and immersive experience from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave.

Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) and Small Cells

DAS and small cells improve mobile network coverage and capacity inside stadiums, allowing fans to use their smartphones for calls, texts, and internet access without interruption.

This is crucial for fans to share moments on social media, access event apps, and stream interactive content.

How are Cellnex helping to shape the smart stadium revolution?

Throughout Europe, Cellnex have worked with many stadiums to improve fan experiences by implementing In-Building Solutions.

Case Study: Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium is fully connected

Cellnex provided the famous Etihad Stadium with an in-stadium solution. Almost 200 antennas and associated radio equipment and master units deliver 36 sectors of mobile coverage and capacity, maximising the experience within the 55,000 seater stadium. Cellnex acted as a single point of contact for this project, managing all stakeholders, including the mobile network operators (MNOs).

Quote from Greg Swimer, Chief Technology Officer at City Football Group

“This project will allow all those that visit our stadium to benefit from reliable 4G, as well as the prospect of even faster 5G signal when it is available on their devices. We know how important connectivity is to our fans, and we are constantly looking for new ways for them to capture and share their experiences at the Etihad Stadium.”

Read the full Manchester City case study

Case Study: Cellnex connects Wanda Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid

With a total capacity of almost 68,000 spectators and a total area of 155,000 sqm, Atlético Madrid required expansive connectivity stretching from the playing field to the outside of the arena. 

The stadium required 250 antennas fed by 106 radio units to enhance network connectivity and cater for the high-density environment in the stadium.

Quote from Rene Abril, CTO of Club Atlético De Madrid:

“We want events at the Wanda Metropolitano to guarantee great connectivity. The high quality connection achieved with the Cellnex DAS project has been key to achieving this. We want our fans to be able to share their feeling inside the stadium, the passion they feel, directly to fans outside, to their family and friends. To enjoy upload and download speeds on their devices would be hard to achieve in a football stadium with 68,000 spectators. We want them to enjoy and share their experiences on their devices anywhere in the world.”

Read the full Atlético Madrid case study

The future of smart stadiums and the fan experience

The future of smart stadiums is set to further revolutionise the fan experience through the integration of cutting-edge technologies. Immersive technologies will offer fans new ways to experience events that bring the fan closer to the game than ever. 

As stadiums evolve, the distinction between physical and digital experiences will blur, enabling hybrid events that allow virtual participation, expanding the reach and engagement of live events. 

This holistic approach promises to enrich the fan experience but also create smarter, more sustainable, and secure venues for the future.

How can Cellnex help to improve your stadium’s connectivity?

Thick-walls, steel structures and metallised glass can restrict or block 4G and 5G signals within stadiums. Exacerbating the challenge is the sheer number of users on match days and during concerts – sapping capacity from already congested networks.

At Cellnex UK, we provide bespoke In-Building Solutions that can give any stadium the mobile coverage and capacity they require.  

Learn more about our In-Building Solutions today, or contact us for more information.