SailGP uses T

Jul 19, 2023

Getty Images

SailGP has extended its partnership with US mobile operator T-Mobile and will use next-generation enterprise 5G networking technology to enhance its broadcast operations and provide its athletes with tools to improve their performance.

T-Mobile’s Advanced Network Solutions (ANS) portfolio will be used at each event, with 5G-enabled wireless POV cameras deployed on each boat, capturing live high-definition video that can be streamed to SailGP’s broadcast centre in London.

The cameras are powered by artificial intelligence (AI) so they can track athlete movement and provide a unique perspective to fans watching on television or viewing content via social and digital platforms.

The 5G network will also power onboard handsets that allow race strategists to access live race data that will inform tactical decisions. Each SailGP boat is equipped with 125 sensors collecting more than 300,000 data points every second.

This data powers multiple broadcast and digital services, and is analysed by teams post-race. The ability to access this information in real time could be transformational from a racing perspective.

“Our F50 catamarans are essentially massive Internet of Things (IoT) devices that also provide incredible entertainment for fans whether they’re in person or watching from around the world,” said Warren Jones, SailGP chief technology officer.

“SailGP and T-Mobile for Business are committed to pushing the boundaries on innovative ways to bring fans into the middle of the action through on-board, live camera views. Plus, our athletes can now access real-time data, which further accelerates the decision-making capabilities for our ten national teams.”

The network is a showcase for T-Mobile’s business division and the partnership with SailGP will last until 2025. Beyond the technical relationship, T-Mobile will receive significant exposure at the four SailGP events in the US each season.

The ultrafast speeds, greater capacity and ultralow latency of 5G networks will transform existing applications and processes and enable entirely new possibilities within sport. Broadcasting is an obvious one, allowing insights and high-quality footage from locations that would otherwise be impossible to reach – like a boat in the middle of the ocean.

Equally important is 5G’s reliability, improved through private networks and slicing, which means it can handle more important workloads than 4G might ever have been trusted with.

For a sport like sailing that takes place over a significant area and in harsh conditions, it’s an ideal use case for T-Mobile.

Enjoying SportsPro content? Create your account and get enhanced access to all the latest stories.

Already have an account? Log in now