Verizon explains how the company is scaling network capacity and deploying infrastructure across host venues
In sum – what to know:
Capacity boost – Verizon will increase bandwidth by 3–5x across U.S. stadiums using 5G, C-band, and mmWave spectrum to support data usage expected to exceed 50TB per match.
5G applications – Network slicing and 5G connectivity will support referee body cameras, public safety and other operational use cases during the tournament.
Lasting impact – Network upgrades and 5G ultra wideband deployments will remain in host cities, supporting enterprises, residents, and public safety beyond the event.
U.S. carrier Verizon is preparing to support connectivity demands for the FIFA World Cup 2026, with stadium data usage expected to exceed 50 terabytes per match, according to company estimates.
In an interview with RCR Wireless News, Brian Gorney, managing director of professional sports and venues at Verizon Business, detailed how the operator is scaling network capacity and deploying infrastructure across host venues.
“Verizon is managing peak traffic loads by delivering a 3X-5X increase in bandwidth across all 11 U.S. host stadiums using 5G technology, C-band, and mmWave spectrum,” Gorney said.
“To ensure consistent user experience in dense crowds, Verizon has deployed low-profile antennas under stadium seats and utilized over 6 million feet of new fiber-optic cabling. Targeted 4G and 5G coverage is also provided by massive ball-shaped antennas in several venues,” he added.
Gorney also said that network performance will be monitored in real time. “A dedicated network team uses advanced real-time monitoring tools from a centralized global event management center and local command centers to track data spikes and perform instant optimizations,” he said.
The operator is also enabling specific use cases through its 5G network. “Currently, the primary application being powered by the 5G network is the Lenovo Referee View body cameras across each of the 16 competition venues, but we are currently testing out other applications with FIFA focused on supporting team and bench tablets,” Gorney said.
On network slicing, he added: “The network slicing use cases are still being worked through with FIFA, but essentially Verizon will utilize advanced network slicing technology to logically partition the network. This is designed to deliver dedicated, enhanced performance and ultra-low latency for critical stadium operations and secure communications, while simultaneously providing an exceptional, high-bandwidth experience for fans.”
Public safety is also supported through a dedicated network slice. “The Verizon Frontline team also leverages network slicing through the Verizon Frontline Network Slice, a 5G ultra wideband (UW) virtual network slice completely dedicated to public safety. This provides first responders with advantages like dedicated 5G UW network resources, tailored performance for mission-critical applications, enhanced reliability, and flexible scalability, allowing us to efficiently allocate dedicated network resources in real-time based on the operational needs of first responders.”
Beyond the event, Verizon said infrastructure deployed for the tournament will remain in place. “Verizon’s continuous network upgrades and the deployment of our 5G ultra wideband network in host cities will remain as a long-term digital legacy. These permanent infrastructure improvements, which extend beyond the stadiums, will benefit residents with enhanced coverage and capacity,” Gorney said.
“For local enterprises, they’ll have the reliability and speed needed to handle surges in mobile payments and online orders, as well as enabling efficient inventory tracking and data processing. Furthermore, the network upgrades enhance public safety and mission-critical communications capabilities for municipalities and first responder agencies for years to come,” he added.
The company is also supporting broadcast operations through its fiber network. “The Broadcast Contribution Network (BCN) utilizes 64x100G wave circuits to connect every stadium to the International Broadcast Center (IBC) located in Dallas. This means the expected 6 billion viewers worldwide of this year’s World Cup will experience the tournament in clarity via a fully diverse and highly reliable network.”
“In addition, Verizon will utilize 5G fixed wireless access (FWA) to support FIFA use cases across the tournament, including FIFA and host city offices, accreditation centers, pop op activations, and various retail and merch outlets,” he said.
