The integration of 5G into UK rugby stadiums could boost the sport’s economy by £139 million each year by 2029 says a forecast by Development Economics into impact of advanced connectivity on professional sports.
The Vodafone-commissioned research claims an increase in revenue is expected from improved hospitality and ticketing strategies enabled by 5G.
Sales of virtual reality seats for sold-out rugby matches could generate £115 million in annual ticket sales by 2029. This is a 103 per cent increase from current levels. Also. streamlined food and beverage services around stadiums using 5G could generate an extra £24 million.
Max Taylor, CEO of Vodafone UK, emphasized 5G’s role in driving economic growth and revitalizing professional sports, with an estimated additional £139 million in rugby revenues within the next five years.
“Max Taylor, CEO of Vodafone UK, said: “ These figures are examples of why we need to invest in the necessary infrastructure needed to make 5G standalone a reality for the UK, and why our proposed combination with Three UK would give us the scale and investment required.”
The report says 5G can enhance sustainability in sports by integrating IoT and AI to reduce stadium carbon emissions. .
Vodafone has created The 5G Match Day, an interactive infographic summary of the report.