This weekend’s Great Britain Sail Grand Prix in Portsmouth will use a 5G network slice from BT Group for a number of functions, including on-board video.
As part of a collaboration with SailGP and the sport’s global technology partner, Ericsson, BT provide two dedicated network slices tailored to the event’s specific requirements.
SailGP marks the first time that BT has delivered multiple concurrent network slices at the same event. The company has worked with Nokia to deploy network slicing capabilities in several radio mast sites covering the event area around Portsmouth harbour, with the slicing being configured end-to-end.
Also new to the UK event is SailGP’s 360-degree AR/VR experience, which will allow fans to experience what it’s like to be onboard an F50. The experience will use new higher capacity 5G radios, being tested in Portsmouth by BT and Ericsson, that will enable ultra low-latency performance and gigabit capacity.
Warren Jones, chief technology officer of SailGP, said: “Partnering with BT has allowed us to push the boundaries of what’s possible in sports connectivity. In a first for SailGP, BT’s use of 5G standalone network slicing ensures the global championship can maintain real-time communications, telemetry and live video from the racecourse – this collaboration showcases how cutting-edge connectivity can transform the delivery of global sporting events.”
Kerry Small, chief operating officer, Business at BT Group, added: “5G Standalone isn’t just about faster speeds – it’s about unlocking tailor-made capabilities that can transform customer experiences. In partnership with SailGP, we’ve demonstrated this by using network slicing to streamline event operations and bring fans closer to the action than ever before. It’s a powerful example of how we’re evolving the UK’s best network to deliver next-generation connectivity and more immersive experiences.”
