Verizon has revealed details of its preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026. As the Official Telecommunication Services Sponsor for FIFA World Cup 2026 and Official Tournament Supporter for FIFA Women’s World Cup 2026, the company is deploying technology and network infrastructure aiming to provide connectivity and services for broadcasters, fans and communities during the forthcoming tournament.
Spectators are expected to use more than 50 terabytes of data within a stadium for each match – approximately equivalent to streaming HD video for more than three years. Networks across all stadiums have been significantly upgraded, with additional 5G spectrum provided to increase capacity by an estimated three to five times. Verizon has installed “thousands of antennas” in stadiums with nearly 140 small cells and temporary cell sites deployed to boost coverage and capacity.
High capacity fibre and wave services will power the Broadcast Contribution Network (BCN), ensuring high-quality, high-definition media broadcasts for the International Broadcast Center (IBC) and enabling FIFA to collect and process critical data and statistics for delivery to global partners.
Host stadiums will feature private 5G networks, enabling applications such as the Lenovo Referee View body cameras, which aim to enhance immersive experiences for fans around the world. Connectivity will extend to FIFA Fan Festival locations, with Verizon’s infrastructure powering public-facing operations.
Leveraging Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband Network, FIFA will run pop-up activations for a range of use cases including logistics/back office capabilities. Additionally, FIFA and Verizon will provide 5G network slicing to support certain applications requiring priority performance, said the company.
Commenting, Nacho Fresco, Director of Technology at FIFA, said, “Our partnership with Verizon has been pivotal in realising the vision for the FIFA World Cup 2026 – a truly connected and unforgettable event.nThe deployment of Verizon’s advanced technology will not only elevate the fan experience inside and outside the stadiums but also ensure a powerful, long-term digital legacy for the host communities. This is about using innovation to bring the world closer to the game of soccer.”
