Industry update: more on development, safety and connectivity

Read more on 5G at Orange Vélodrome, KM Mechelen’s plan for an energy neutral AFAS Stadion, the inauguration of Ferenc Puskas Stadium and more in ESSMA’s weekly industry update.

Development & Construction

• EURO 2020 host venue, Ferenc Puskas Stadium, was inaugurated last Friday with a friendly match against Uruguay. ESSMA Members have the opportunity to visit the new 67,889 Hungarian national stadium as an add-on to the upcoming ESSMA Summit in Budapest.

More information about Puskas Arena 

• KV Mechelen launched its KVM2025 plan to move the club forward in the upcoming years. The plan consists of various development projects to create an energy neutral AFAS Stadion including LED lighting and solar panels. Furthermore, the club will focus on expanding the first team training facilities, investing in matchday mobility, youth infrastructure and the esports department.

• In a second-stage public consultation, Everton FC has revealed that 96% of the 43,039 respondents support The People’s Project for a proposed 52,000 capacity stadium. Over the course of the two-stage consultation, more than 63,000 responses were received. The club expects to be playing in the new stadium by 2023.

• Ricoh Arena finished the refurbishment of its Pure Legends Lounge. The 400-square-metre lounge has been transformed into a modern space that now offers a refreshed bar, communal benches and a large projection screen, and can accommodate up to 250 fans.

Fan Experience & Hospitality

• Olympique de Marseille will test 5G at Orange Vélodrome. The new technology, powered by Orange, was used during the last home match against Olympique Lyonnais. Due to the latest high-speed connectivity, VR content and a live 360 degree video stream in 8K will  strengthen the club’s effort in creating an enhanced matchday experience.

Safety and Security

• Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, in collaboration with Qatar's Security Committee and the International Centre for Sport Security (ICSS), organised a training to prepare security personnel for the Arabian Gulf Cup and FIFA Club World Cup™. The training covered details on how to prepare for spectator events, controlling the entry, exit and movement of spectators, monitoring spectators, conflict management, dealing with accidents and emergencies, anti-discrimination and human rights.