Connectivity


To address this, some stadiums are moving away from full reliance on MNOs and exploring new models that give them back control. A software-based Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) model is one such path. By deploying and managing their own private 5G networks through a software platform, venues gain full control over connectivity, unlocking the ability to scale capacity where and when it’s needed most. This approach leverages


cloud-native, edge-enabled infrastructure that’s


purpose-built for high-density environments, ensuring fast, reliable, and secure connections throughout the venue.


The result is not only operational flexibility but also a dramatically improved fan experience, enabling new digital services, enhanced monetisation, and more seamless sponsor activations.


From Hardware To Software: A New Architecture For Connectivity


Shifting from traditional, hardware-based solutions like DAS to a software-defined connectivity model isn’t just a technical upgrade; it’s a strategic transformation. While DAS provides basic coverage, it falls short when it comes to the flexibility and capacity required for today’s digital demands, such as real- time streaming, AI-driven insights, and interactive fan services. A software-defined approach built around private 5G unlocks far more: the ability to orchestrate, scale, and adapt network services dynamically, in line with operational priorities and evolving fan expectations. It gives venues ownership of their connectivity, enabling them to treat the network as a strategic asset, not just infrastructure.


Services enabled by these networks are growing and seem only limited by imagination, such as live multi-angle video streaming, AI-powered match insights, indoor 3D navigation, computer vision, and in-seat food and beverage ordering. For fans, this means new, immersive ways to experience the game, regardless of where they’re seated. For brands and sponsors, it opens the door to high-tech, interactive activations tailored to real-time audience behaviour. And for stadium operators, it translates into richer data on attendee movement and preferences, leading to more informed decisions and increased spend per visitor.


ROI That Speaks For Itself


Beyond the fan engagement layer, there's a compelling business case. An ROI analysis by Tolaga Research1


, an independent


This model empowers stadiums to take control of their connectivity infrastructure,


Seamless Integration, Smarter Operations!


To fully realise the benefits of private networks and the services they enable, operational intelligence is essential. That’s where real-time network management tools come into play. These systems can optimise user Quality of Experience (QoE) by dynamically balancing traffic loads between public networks (aka those outside of the stadium and owned by the MNOs) and private networks based on AI analytics and real-time demand information.


In one recent deployment testing this novel concept, the AI running in the network will shift users seamlessly from congested public infrastructure to the stadium’s private network during peak traffic moments, maintaining uninterrupted service and ensuring data flows stay efficient. This added layer of agility ensures that even during the most demanding events, connectivity remains robust and responsive, supporting smooth operations and consistently high-quality fan experiences.


Conclusion


As stadiums compete not just with each other but with the convenience of fans’ living rooms, connectivity is no longer optional; it’s a cornerstone of the live experience. By shifting from rigid, operator-controlled infrastructure to flexible, software-defined private networks, stadiums gain the power to reimagine how they engage fans, activate sponsors, and operate efficiently. With real-time intelligence, edge capabilities, and scalable infrastructure, they can transform every match day into a connected, data-driven, and immersive event, one that keeps fans coming back, both physically and digitally.


1: https://weaverlabs.io/revolutionising-stadium-connectivity/ unlocking new commercial


partnerships, reducing operational overheads, and creating unique sponsorship opportunities.


FSM


telecoms and technology research firm, compared traditional DAS infrastructure to a cloud-native private 5G deployment with edge capabilities. The five-year Net Present Value (NPV) increased from £16.8 million to £52.14 million, driven by the platform’s ability to reduce time-to-market, support new revenue-generating applications, and lower the total cost of ownership.


FSM


13


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36