5G infrastructure becomes new B2B growth driver for sports

The communication infrastructure established for major sporting events, such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, is evolving into a significant B2B growth driver for the telecommunications industry. According to an analysis by Ericsson, 5G networks are expanding beyond simple internet access to become foundational infrastructure for the entire sports and entertainment value chain, including fan experiences, stadium operations, and media production.

In North America, investment in stadium communication infrastructure has been particularly active, with over 100 sports and entertainment facilities in the United States alone providing public 5G network services. Data traffic within venues is increasingly shifting from Wi-Fi to 5G; for instance, during a major American football championship in 2025, the ratio of 5G to Wi-Fi traffic reached 3 to 1.

Beyond connectivity, 5G is enhancing operational efficiency and media capabilities. Private 5G networks allow for wireless broadcasting equipment, increasing mobility for production teams during large-scale events like professional golf tournaments. Additionally, Ericsson reports that 40% of sports event visitors would consider paying extra for guaranteed stable connectivity, suggesting potential for new revenue streams through premium network services.