STADIUM TECHNOLOGY NEWS
Robot Dogs to enhance stadium security at 2026 World Cup
In preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Mexican authorities are deploying a squad of four remote-operated robot dogs equipped with cameras, night vision, and communication systems to patrol around BBVA Stadium in Guadalupe and assist security personnel by scouting potentially dangerous situations before human officers are sent in. This represents a high-profile use of robotics and sensor tech for crowd and venue safety at major events, and is part of a broader trend toward integrating autonomous systems into event operations. Read more here.
Big 12 embraces LED glass court for basketball championships
The Big 12 Conference is set to deploy an LED glass court for upcoming basketball tournaments, bringing programmable floor graphics, dynamic sponsorship integration and enhanced broadcast visuals to center stage. The move positions the conference at the forefront of immersive venue technology, signaling how digitally enabled playing surfaces could reshape fan engagement and commercial activation in college sports. Read more here.
Amazon-Powered RFID “Just Walk Out” stores prove viable at one-off events
A partnership between Proof of the Pudding and Amazon demonstrated that temporary, RFID-based autonomous “Just Walk Out” concession stores can work at outdoor, one-off sporting events like the PGA Tour’s The American Express by slashing wait times to about 15 seconds and boosting revenue. The successful pilots – deployed at a dozen-plus locations in 2025, including golf and motorsports – suggest that portable cashierless retail tech could become a major fan experience and revenue generator outside permanent stadium environments. Read more here.
STADIUM PROJECT NEWS
Sharks Unveil $425M “Teal Reimagination” to transform SAP Center
The San Jose Sharks have launched their $425 million “Teal Reimagination” project to modernize the SAP Center with expanded concourses, enhanced seating, premium amenities, and tech upgrades as part of a long-term commitment to keep the franchise downtown through at least 2051. Read more here.
Bears stadium saga evolves as Portage, Indiana proposal emerges
The protracted effort to replace the Chicago Bears’ long-outdated home has taken yet another turn, with a new bid for a sprawling development in Portage, Indiana adding to the ongoing debate between that plan and previous pitches in Arlington Heights and northwest Indiana. The proposal shifts the conversation on location, funding, and infrastructure demands, underscoring fresh challenges for the franchise as it seeks a modern, fan-friendly stadium solution. Read more here.
Historic Jackie Robinson Ballpark gets preservation-focused remodel
A major renovation at the Jackie Robinson Ballpark is underway, carefully balancing modern upgrades with the preservation of the century-old ballpark’s historic charm, ensuring the facility can continue hosting baseball while honoring its storied past. The project’s thoughtful design highlights how heritage venues can be revitalized for contemporary use without erasing their cultural and architectural significance. Read more here.
Tennessee unveils Major Lindsey Nelson Stadium renovation
The University of Tennessee completed a comprehensive renovation of Lindsey Nelson Stadium just in time for the 2026 season that expanded capacity, upgraded fan amenities, added digital signage, and modernized critical infrastructure to support the Volunteers’ baseball program through the coming decade. Read more here.
MCG upgrade accelerates ahead of historic Rams-49ers NFL showdown
The Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers are set to meet at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in what will be the National Football League’s first regular-season game in Australia, with the 100,000-seat venue undergoing significant upgrades to accommodate the league’s field configuration and broadcast requirements. The project underscores both the scale of the MCG’s modernization efforts and the NFL’s broader international expansion strategy. Read more here.
STADIUM BUSINESS NEWS
First Direct Arena pioneers “The Deck” as the UK’s first outdoor venue plus seating deck
The First Direct Arena has unveiled The Deck – a new outdoor seating and hospitality space that makes it the first UK arena to combine indoor show programming with an integrated outdoor fan area. The addition enhances the fan experience by extending event engagement beyond the main bowl and opening new commercial and sponsorship opportunities tied to outdoor social spaces. Read more here.
