Shell Energy Stadium: Evolv Technology enhances live experience
Evolv Technologies Holdings, Inc. a leading security technology company pioneering AI-based solutions designed to create safer experiences, today announced that it has entered a partnership with Shell Energy Stadium, home of the Houston Dynamo FC and Houston Dash, both pro soccer teams. Under the terms of the partnership, the stadium has entered a multi-year subscription agreement for Evolv Express®, the company’s flagship concealed weapons detection system. Evolv has also been designated as a “Proud Partner” of the club.
The Texas stadium selected Evolv as a key investment aimed at improving the guest experience through more efficient and streamlined entry for all events at the venue. “At Shell Energy Stadium, we are focused on delivering a high-quality experience from the moment guests arrive,” said Shaun Johnson, General Manager of Facilities and Operations. “We are always looking for ways to improve efficiency and comfort for our fans, and this investment helps create a smoother entry process across all of our events.”
Evolv Express uses advanced sensor technology and AI to screen guests while allowing individuals to move through entry points at a natural walking pace. Evolv Express systems have been deployed across all public and non-public entry points at the stadium, helping to manage entry flow and support a more convenient arrival experience for fans and guests.
“We are proud to partner with Shell Energy Stadium to support their vision for an improved guest experience,” said John Baier, Evolv’s Vice President of Sports & Entertainment. “Our goal is to help create safer, more efficient entry experiences so guests can focus on enjoying their event.”
The addition of Evolv Express is part of the stadium’s ongoing commitment to enhance the guest experience as Houston prepares for a significant period of upcoming sports and entertainment events. With a full calendar that includes professional soccer, international matches, concerts, and community events, the stadium continues to invest in creating a welcoming, efficient, and enjoyable environment for every guest.
Evolv, a leader in AI-powered security solutions, has deployed its technology at hundreds of venues across sports, healthcare, and public spaces, helping organisations enhance safety while maintaining a positive guest experience.
Etihad Park: New York City FC to start 27/28 season at new ground
New York City FC has announced the Club will play their first match at Etihad Park, New York City’s first soccer-specific stadium, with the beginning of the 2027-28 MLS season in the summer of 2027. Before the calendar change, MLS will stage a transition season from February to May 2027, featuring a 14-game regular season, playoffs, and MLS Cup. The Club will play home matches during that transition season at Yankee Stadium and Citi Field.
“We cannot wait to welcome our fans for the first-ever New York City FC match at Etihad Park,” said Brad Sims, New York City FC CEO. “Construction is progressing incredibly well, and we remain on schedule. With Major League Soccer transitioning to a new competition calendar, we believe the right moment to open Etihad Park is at the start of the 2027-28 season — aligning our new home with the beginning of a new era for both our league and our Club.
“Opening alongside a full season ensures our fans can experience Etihad Park from day one, rather than in the middle of a transition year. This approach allows us to properly celebrate our final matches at Yankee Stadium and Citi Field, prepare thoughtfully for the move, and build toward a definitive and historic opening that reflects what this moment means for us and our city.
“In the months leading up to the 2027-28 season, we will host test events to ensure everything is ready for opening day. We are incredibly grateful for our fans’ continued support and look forward to beginning this next chapter together at Etihad Park.”
Accredit Solutions Launches Accredit Visit
Accredit Solutions Launches Accredit Visit: Bringing Event-Grade Security to Everyday Venue Operations
New product closes the security gap between match days and non-event days, replacing paper logs with a secure, auditable digital workflow.
Accredit Solutions has announced the launch of Accredit Visit, a purpose-built visitor and contractor management system designed to extend the operational control of high-stakes events into everyday stadium and venue visitor management.
On match days, stadiums maintain rigorous security perimeters. Yet for the remaining 300+ days of the year, many still rely on manual processes or paper logs to manage site access. Accredit Visitor addresses this operational blind spot by applying consistent, event-grade access management to the contractors, corporate guests, media, and deliveries that access the venue daily.
Security Doesn't Take Days Off
Unlike generic visitor tools designed for office buildings or corporate lobbies, Accredit Visit is built on Accredit Solutions’ proven accreditation and access control platform. Operating as part of the Accredit OS ecosystem, it integrates seamlessly with the venue’s existing accreditation data, ensuring that everyday guests are managed with the same rigor, governance, and audit trails applied to the event-day workforce.
"Venues don't lower their standards on match days, and they shouldn't have to accept lower standards on a Tuesday morning," said Peder Berg, CEO of Accredit Solutions. "With Accredit Visit, we are extending the 'pride of precision' that our clients are famous for into their daily operations. It gives the security and operation teams confidence that every person on site—whether it's a cup final, a concert, or a routine visit or maintenance day, is authorised, vetted, and accounted for."
Key Capabilities of Accredit Visit:
- One Identity, One Standard: Operates on the same secure data layer as the core accreditation system, removing data silos between event and non-event days.
- Pre-Arrival Control: Allows hosts to pre-register guests and contractors, ensuring compliance checks are completed before arrival.
- Instant Access: QR and RFID badge issuance for seamless entry, replacing hand-written passes.
- Real-Time Visibility: Live dashboards provide security teams with a single view of exactly who is in the building and where they are zoned.
- Regulatory Compliance: Supports requirements associated with the UK Protect Duty (Martyn’s Law) by providing a robust, digital audit trail of all persons on site.
For venue operators, Accredit Visit delivers immediate efficiency. Administrative burden is reduced through self-service check-ins, while security teams gain a single source of truth for all venue traffic.
Estadio Azteca to host 49ers regular season game
The San Francisco 49ers are set to return to Mexico City in the 2026 season.
This year, the 49ers will host a regular season game at Estadio Banorte, with their opponent to be announced. The matchup comes as the NFL begins a three-year commitment to play regular season games in Mexico City, further strengthening the league's presence in one of its most passionate global markets.
Mexico is home to the largest NFL fanbase outside of the United States. In addition to regular season games, the NFL and the 49ers continue to invest year-round through fan initiatives, NFL Flag development, and community impact programs.
The 49ers have become a regular team to play internationally in Mexico City. San Francisco most recently traveled to Mexico in 2022, earning a 38-10 victory over the Arizona Cardinals on "Monday Night Football" at Estadio Azteca. The NFL has hosted six games in Mexico City over the past 21 years, with the 49ers appearing in two of them. Notably, the 49ers were part of a historic moment in 2005, playing the Cardinals in the NFL's first-ever international regular season game in Mexico City.
"We are delighted to bring regular‑season NFL games back to Mexico City beginning in 2026, reaffirming our deep and long‑standing connection with fans across the country," NFL Mexico director General Arturo Olivé said. "Estadio Banorte has hosted some incredibly memorable moments in our international history, and returning here underscores our commitment to growing the sport at every level in the market."
Ipswich Town partner with Unilumin for LED solutions
Ipswich Town have announced Unilumin as the club’s Official LED Solutions Partner.
Unilumin, a world leader in LED display, work with some of the biggest sporting organisations and clubs across the globe and have now partnered with Town on a multi-year deal.
The agreement will see Unilumin and Town work together on a range of projects, both at Portman Road and the Playford Road training ground, as the club continues to invest in improving its digital offering to supporters and partners.
Andy Wooldridge, Town’s Commercial Director, said: “We are delighted to be working with Unilumin in what is an exciting step for the club, as we welcome a new global partner.
“Unilumin are a world-leader in their field and will bring real expertise to our work together on a number of projects, as we continue to invest in the club’s digital offering.
“The world-leading technology Unilumin bring make them the perfect partner to help drive the club forward.”
Felix Chen, Sports & Partnerships Director at Unilumin, added: “We are excited to be partnering with Ipswich Town at a time of such growth for the club.
“The club and ourselves share many of the same values and approaches, making this long-term relationship a natural one which will offer many opportunities to move things forward.”
University of Southern California partner with Oak View Group for hospitality
The University of Southern California Athletics Department has announced a partnership with Oak View Group (OVG), the global leader in premium live entertainment infrastructure and services, as the hospitality provider for on-campus athletics venues, including the new Rawlinson Stadium, Dedeaux Field, and The Galen Center.
The partnership represents a shared commitment to enhancing campus life through food, service, and experiences that celebrate USC tradition. New food & beverage offerings are available at concessions stands with a focus on delivering fresh, locally inspired menus, exceptional service, and a game-day atmosphere that reflects the spirit and pride of the Trojans. Additional highlight will include signature menu items, grab and go markets to reduce wait times, and upgraded premium hospitality areas for fans, alumni, and special guests.
“USC’s athletics venues are home to decades of tradition and unforgettable moments,” said Charles Griffin Cale Director of Athletics Jen Cohen. “As we continue to better engage our fans and further invest in our student-athletes, this partnership with Oak View Group allows us to honour that legacy while introducing new standards of hospitality, service, innovation to ensure world-class experiences for the Trojan Family.”
In addition to concessions, OVG offers performance dining for teams at The Galen Center Arena, providing services that support student-athlete performance and recovery, and manages catering for select athletics events.
“Few institutions embody tradition and excellence like USC. We’re thrilled to partner with such an iconic athletics program to deliver hospitality that’s bold, forward-thinking, and authentically Southern California while setting a new benchmark for the college game-day experience,” said Ken Gaber, President, OVG Hospitality.
OVG has a growing portfolio of collegiate athletics collaborations, supporting some of the nation’s most respected universities and campus venues, including Vanderbilt University, University of Connecticut, Penn State University, University of Kansas, University of Arizona, Texas Tech University, Villanova University, Virginia Commonwealth University, Colorado State University, University of Illinois, University of Texas, Missouri State University and Virginia Tech, among others.
Griven Illuminates Europe’s Largest Media Façade
Located within a redeveloped urban district of Milan, Arena Milano — also known as Arena di Santa Giulia and recently renamed "UNIPOL Dome” following its new title sponsor — has rapidly emerged as a symbol of the area’s architectural and cultural revitalisation.
Commissioned by CTS Eventim and designed by David Chipperfield Architects in collaboration with ARUP, the largest venue of this kind in Europe combines the classical language of the Roman amphitheatre with a contemporary architectural expression defined by bold geometries and refined proportions.
Lighting Design Concept and Installation
The façade lighting scheme, conceived by Arup and DCA, is based on Griven’s custom linear LED modules with independently controllable pixels, mounted along the arena’s three external rings using bespoke panels tailored to the varying heights of the façade elements. Each LED bar has been manufactured in custom lengths to ensure uninterrupted visual continuity along the building’s curved geometry.
In total, the installation comprises 54,560 LED bars extending nearly 50 km in length, featuring around 400,000 pixels with an extraodinary pixel pitch of 125mm x 165mm, managed via 3785 DMX universes controlled via Artnet protocol in unicast and it is supported by 340 km of DMX cabling and 3,785 power supply units.
This complex system transforms the arena envelope into a large-scale dynamic communication surface, a unique interactive façade, while maintaining architectural coherence with the building’s clean, linear composition.
Multimedia Façade Functionality
The multimedia façade of Arena Milano is capable of displaying dynamic imagery, text, colour gradients, animated effects and video content optimised to its native resolution. A centralised control platform manages the entire perimeter, allowing the synchronisation of visual content with precision and consistency. Dedicated façade management software enables the upload of multimedia files, live camera feeds and moving text, as well as the automated scheduling of programmed scenarios based on predefined dates and times.
The configured server operates all LED modules as a unified system, allowing real-time adjustments to brightness and illumination levels through a single command interface. Automated dimming functions enable the luminous flux to be modulated according to environmental conditions and specific operational requirements, contributing to reduced light pollution and improved energy efficiency.
Product Performance and Technical Features
Specifically developed by Griven for this installation, the GRAPH-i-PIX Opaline RGBW custom LED modules incorporate precision optics and an opaline diffusing front screen: Gri-dex. This diffuser—made of fire-resistant, UV-stable, and anti-yellowing polycarbonate—was engineered exclusively for Griven to ensure exceptionally smooth colour transitions and uniform visual output. Bespoke beam angles and finishing enhance light reflection across the anodised aluminium vertical elements separating each LED bar, reinforcing the façade’s architectural rhythm.
With an IP66 protection rating and integrated thermal protection, these modules are fully resin-encapsulated to ensure maximum resistance to weathering while providing effective heat dissipation. They deliver stable output in terms of both colour consistency and saturation, enabling the luminous intensity of the multimedia façade to be modulated in response to natural light conditions throughout the day and night.
In line with the essential and rational design principles defined by the project’s architectural studio, all power and control cabling is fully concealed, and each LED bar is equipped with a quick-connect system to ensure maximum protection and ease of replacement. The ultra-slim black (RAL 9005 textured) profile integrates discreetly within the façade, delivering a versatile direct-view lighting solution capable of producing complex pixel-mapped content and high-impact abstract visual compositions.
Available in configurations with either seven or eight individually addressable pixels, the RGB+W 4000K version ensures high-quality white light output and flicker-free operation at any dimming level. The bespoke engineering of the modules enables clear daytime legibility while maintaining a refined visual presence at night, meeting both aesthetic and energy-performance requirements without compromising colour richness or operational flexibility.
We are extremely proud to have contributed to this challenging project through the development of a groundbreaking illumination system. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all the people, organisations, and companies whose expertise, commitment, and collaboration made the successful completion of this extraordinary architectural achievement possible. Particular thanks go to our commercial and technical teams, whose skills, dedication, and professional excellence were instrumental in bringing this ambitious vision to life.
Formula 1 extends deal with Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya
Formula 1 has announced a multi-year extension with the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya to host a Grand Prix in 2028, 2030, and 2032 in addition to the event scheduled in 2026. From this year the race will also be re-named as the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix.
The extension follows significant investment at the circuit in recent years including the construction of the Circuit Rooftop, a new hospitality space overlooking turns 9, 10, and 11 and the entrance of the main straight, as well as the installation of solar panels throughout the circuit.
Built in 1991 as part of the 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games development programme, the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya features an exciting mix of high and low speed corners and has played host to many memorable moments, including Max Verstappen’s maiden Grand Prix victory in 2016. In 2025, 300,000 fans attended the race weekend, which saw Oscar Piastri claim victory with teammate Lando Norris in second. From the current grid, Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso have also crossed the line first in Barcelona.
In recent years, organisers have taken steps to elevate the overall fan experience and ensure that the wider community is at the heart of the Grand Prix. For the last two years there has been a fan festival hosted in the iconic Plaça de Catalunya ahead of the Grand Prix weekend, which will return in 2026.
The races in Barcelona will be in rotation with the Grand Prix at the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, which will take place in 2026, 2027, 2029, and 2031.
Stefano Domenicali, President & CEO of Formula 1, said: “Barcelona is an incredible city, and the Formula 1 fans there always welcome us with such passion, so I am delighted that we will continue to race at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya for years to come. The team have invested heavily in the circuit and hosted fantastic fan festivals in recent years, so we look forward to seeing how they continue to develop the experience, both for attendees at the race and for the city as a whole."
"I would like to thank Salvador Illa, President of the Government of Catalunya, Pol Gibert, CEO of Circuits de Catalunya SL and General Secretary of the Department of Business and Employment for their unwavering commitment to hosting Formula 1, and Oriol Sagrera, the former CEO of Circuits de Catalunya SL and former General Secretary of the Department of Business and Employment, who was key to securing the renewal. I can’t wait to see our brilliant fans in Barcelona in June!”
Pol Gibert, CEO of Circuits de Catalunya SL and General Secretary of the Department of Business and Employment, added: “We welcome the renewal of the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Catalonia, at least until 2032. We would like to express our gratitude to Formula 1 for the trust placed in the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya and in the region over all these years."
"This renewal is the result of a strong relationship and close collaboration and represents a very important step in further consolidating Catalonia as a key fixture on the international calendar. Formula 1 generates an economic impact of more than €300 million per edition, but above all it is a strategic event that helps project Catalonia worldwide as a country capable of hosting top-level sporting competitions.””
Stade de France to host first NFL game in Paris
Paris will host its first NFL regular season game in 2026, as the League continues to focus on global growth efforts and expanding the international games slate to more countries around the world.
The history-making game in France will take place at the Stade de France – the country's national stadium – with the New Orleans Saints named as one of the participating teams.
“Bringing a regular season game to Paris in 2026 marks an exciting next step in the continued expansion of the League’s global footprint,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “Paris is one of the world’s greatest sporting and cultural cities with tremendous success in hosting global events that unite fans on the biggest stages. Playing our first ever regular season game at the impressive Stade de France, together with the New Orleans Saints, underlines our continued global growth ambitions and we look forward to bringing the NFL to our passionate fans in France.”
The game will be played in partnership with GL events with support from the French Department of Sports, Youth and Community Life, the Fédération Française de Football Américain (FFFA), Plaine Commune, Ville de Saint Denis, Ville de Paris, Métropole du Grand Paris and Région Ile de France.
“Hosting the first NFL Paris game at the Stade de France reflects a shared ambition and showcases our ability to bring together different sporting cultures, deliver operational excellence and position Paris and France as a welcoming destination for the world’s greatest sporting events,” said Chairman of the GL events Group Olivier Ginon. “Together with the support of the State, local authorities, as well as tourism and hospitality stakeholders, GL events Group is honored and proud to work with the NFL to write this new chapter in the history of the Stade de France, fully in line with the legacy of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.”
The Stade de France, built in 1998, is the country’s largest stadium. A multi-purpose venue, it hosts major international sport and entertainment events and is home to the French national soccer and rugby teams. It is the only stadium to have hosted a FIFA World Cup, Rugby World Cup, UEFA Champions League Finals, UEFA European Championship Finals and played a starring role in the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris.
The Saints have international marketing rights in France as part of the NFL's Global Markets Program, an initiative that grants global marketing rights to clubs in markets outside of the U.S. to build brand awareness and fandom. All 32 NFL teams participate in the program with rights across 21 markets.
The NFL has a growing presence in France with over 14 million fans. Flag football, the non-contact format of the game, will make its debut as an Olympic sport in Los Angeles 2028 (LA28). NFL Flag – the League’s official youth flag football program – launched in France in 2023 in partnership with the FFFA and already reaches over 8,000 boys and girls, with plans to grow participation in the years ahead.
Al-Ittihad partner with FIA and Parsons for new project
In a major step toward a promising future, and as part of advancing the design phase of the Al-Ittihad Sports Village Project — a pioneering development set to redefine sports infrastructure in Saudi Arabia — Al-Ittihad Club Company, represented by the Director of Facilities and Infrastructure, Eng. Hassan Harsani, has signed agreements appointing Parsons as Project Management Consultant and FIA as Lead Designer for the new development.
The master plan encompasses an integrated range of facilities, including the club’s headquarters, first-team and youth training pitches, performance development centers, administrative buildings, and commercial assets designed to enhance the club’s financial and operational sustainability, while adhering to environmental sustainability standards.
Al-Ittihad stands among the leading clubs in the Kingdom pursuing this ambitious vision. The project’s strategic planning and comprehensive facilities will enhance player performance, improve operational efficiency, elevate fan experience, and support the club’s long-term growth.
The development benefits from a prime strategic location near King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, offering seamless connectivity and urban integration. It is set to become a world-class sports destination aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 and international infrastructure standards.
In line with its commitment to excellence, Al-Ittihad invited a selection of globally renowned consultants to participate in a competitive design process for the master plan. Following a thorough evaluation process — aligned with FIFA requirements, global best practices, and the club’s operational needs — the preferred design was selected, embodying the club’s vision and future ambitions.
This collaboration with leading international partners reflects Al-Ittihad’s commitment to elevating sports infrastructure standards and establishing a new benchmark for club facility development in the region.