A Atos, official IT partner of UEFA Since 2022, it has ensured that all technological aspects of the games run smoothly. This includes digital tickets, accreditation, real-time statistics, fan apps, and photographer networks.
UEFA demands higher standards than existing stadium infrastructure. Even modern venues like the Allianz Arena require reinforcement, involving months of preparation. Atos installs redundant networks and kilometers of cables for critical operations such as security, media, hospitality, and broadcasting. In older stadiums, the effort is even greater due to the need for modernization.
Atos has implemented strong standardization in stadium infrastructure installation. Standard equipment boxes have been developed that can be placed in any stadium, allowing everything to be plugged in and running immediately. These boxes are always configured identically and prepared for various scenarios.
When kilometers of cables and infrastructure need to be installed in just three days, there's no time for on-site modifications, so everything must be operational immediately. In addition to infrastructure, Atos also digitally manages stadium access control and security.
UEFA has replaced paper tickets with an app developed by Atos. The ticket is only available on matchday and near the stadium, requires GPS, and features a dynamic QR code to prevent fraud. A smartphone is now mandatory for attending UEFA matches.
Atos has created an accreditation portal for UEFA for staff, media, teams, partners, and VIPs. UEFA evaluates applications and, upon approval, issues access badges.
Access badges are collected at accreditation centers near the stadium, where identities are checked and passes with security chips are printed. VIPs receive accreditation directly at UEFA-designated hotels.
Atos processed 130.000 accreditation requests for Euro 2024. The system allows access control and revocation of permissions in real time. With experience gained from the Olympic Games, Atos helps UEFA innovate and adapt to changes in technology and the way sports are consumed.
The way people watch sports is changing. An Atos study reveals that 77% of people over 56 still watch games on television. Among those aged 40 to 56, that percentage drops to 57%. Among millennials and Generation Z, it's only 35%. In other words, younger audiences are moving away from traditional television, although 65% still watch sports on their smartphones.
Atos ensures top-notch cybersecurity for stadiums' digital infrastructure. During Euro 2024, it reduced three billion security events to 800 alerts and prevented incidents. This protection includes identifying vulnerabilities in peripheral devices and ensuring flawless critical services.
While football may seem unchanged, every match involves complex technology and infrastructure. The technical performance behind the scenes, with AI, fast apps, and reliable systems, can be more impressive than many games.
