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Fan Entertainment & Hospitality / 12 November 2024 / 2 min read

11th ESSMA Summit Madrid: The need for a stable and reliable Wi-Fi system

Edgar Pinheiro from Sporting CP presented a case study on the importance of robust Wi-Fi systems in modern stadiums. Partnering with Extreme Networks, Sporting CP became the first European stadium with full Wi-Fi 6E coverage, demonstrating how advanced connectivity enhances user experience, improves operations, and drives new revenue streams.

The presentation, “The Need for a Stable and Reliable Wi-Fi System,” by Edgar Pinheiro of Sporting CP, showcased the stadium’s groundbreaking deployment of Wi-Fi 6E in collaboration with Extreme Networks.

Key Discussion Points:

  1. Wi-Fi 6E: A Game-Changer for Connectivity:

    • In partnership with Extreme Networks, Sporting CP became the first European stadium with complete Wi-Fi 6E coverage, setting a new industry standard for connectivity.
    • Wi-Fi 6E provides significantly enhanced performance, with throughput increases of up to 100x compared to legacy systems.
  2. Operational and User Benefits:

    • Enhanced Fan Experience: The system supports NFC-based ticketing, mobile gates, and face recognition technology, streamlining stadium access and boosting fan interaction.
    • Interactive Engagement: Fans enjoy seamless connectivity, enabling access to rich content and interactive features during events.
    • Operational Efficiency: Centralized management and offloading capabilities improve reliability and open new revenue opportunities.
  3. Targeted Stakeholder Benefits:

    • The system is designed to cater specifically to Socios (members), Co-workers, and Partners, delivering tailored advantages like improved communication, real-time data sharing, and better engagement.
  4. Wi-Fi as a “Must-Have”:

    • Sporting CP emphasized that advanced connectivity is no longer optional for modern stadiums; it is essential for meeting audience expectations and ensuring operational excellence.
  5. Future-Proofing Infrastructure:

    • The partnership with Extreme Networks ensures Sporting CP remains a leader in stadium connectivity, paving the way for further technological innovations.

Key Takeaways:

  • Wi-Fi 6E, powered by Extreme Networks, transforms stadium operations and fan experiences through enhanced connectivity and technological integration.
  • Robust infrastructure supports the adoption of new technologies like NFC ticketing and face recognition systems.
  • Investing in cutting-edge Wi-Fi capabilities positions stadiums as leaders in innovation while creating new revenue opportunities.

This session highlighted how Sporting CP and Extreme Networks have partnered to redefine connectivity standards in stadiums, setting a blueprint for others to follow.

Check out the full presentation here

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