Construction Pair Confirmed for Brisbane Olympic Stadium
The joint venture of BESIX Watpac and John Holland has moved to the next stage of the selection process to decide the construction contractors for the iconic Brisbane Stadium.
Together the two construction giants have delivered a host of landmark stadium projects. BESIX Watpac has delivered Queensland’s Suncorp Stadium, the Gabba and Queensland Country Bank Stadium. John Holland has built the MCG Great Southern Stand, Marvel Stadium, Sydney Football Stadium and Penrith Stadium. .
The Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GIICA) are overseeing the multi-phase Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) process that began in October last year.
BESIX Watpac and John Holland now move into the next stage of ECI, working closely with GIICA and the stadium’s design team to finalise design detail and construction methodology. The ECI process will be finalised in the new year, with construction of the stadium set to commence in 2027.
GIICA went to market on October 31 last year inviting national and international contractors with experience delivering major stadiums and large-scale infrastructure projects to lodge for prequalification after which a shortlist of high-quality bidders was narrowed to the final two in April this year.
The two joint ventures selected – BESIX Watpac and John Holland, and Australia’s Built in partnership with Sacyr – have been working independently with GIICA and the Stadium’s design team to review the design and early planning to propose innovative and efficient build solutions.
Brisbane Stadium in Victoria Park will become the city’s landmark venue, hosting the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Opening and Closing Ceremonies and athletics.
After the Games, the stadium will become home ground for the Brisbane Lions AFL team and cricket’s Brisbane Heat and Queensland Bulls. With a concert capacity of 70,000, the stadium will also attract international acts and major events.
Design for the stadium is progressing well with Principal Architects COX, Hassell and Azusa Sekkei, while stadium early works contractor BMD is busy undertaking bulk earthworks on site.
Brisbane Stadium is part of the $7.1 billion Games Venues Infrastructure Program jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments and will be delivered by the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GIICA).
Hellas Verona Submit Stadium Plans to City of Verona
Hellas Verona FC has submitted the Feasibility Document for Project Alternatives (DOCFAP) to the Municipality of Verona, formally initiating the process provided for under Italy’s Stadium Law and setting out the Club’s plan for Verona’s new 30,000-seat stadium. The new venue will create a world-class atmosphere by bringing fans closer to the pitch, ensuring full accessibility, and providing top-tier stadium hospitality and facilities.
In line with the Urban Planning Document issued by the Municipality of Verona, Hellas Verona FC has developed a comprehensive proposal to demolish the existing Bentegodi Stadium and construct a new venue on the same site. If approved, the new stadium will meet the requirements to host matches during UEFA Euro 2032. The plan also includes a temporary stadium in the immediate vicinity, allowing the Club to continue playing its home matches in Verona throughout the construction period.
Several alternatives to the proposed project were thoroughly assessed, including retaining the existing stadium, redeveloping it, and relocating the entire project to another area of the city. Following this analysis, the demolition of the Bentegodi and construction of a new stadium on the same site was identified as offering the strongest overall balance of community benefit, feasibility, and timing, while also aligning with the Municipality’s urban planning objectives.
Supporter feedback has also played an important role in the development of the proposal. Through the Club’s recent fan survey, Hellas Verona has sought to understand the priorities of its supporters and reflect those views in the development of the new stadium project.
The analysis also covered technical, functional, economic and financial, environmental, and urban-planning considerations and was carried out with the support of a specialist advisory team comprising Gensler, Sportium, iDEAS, Arup, GAD, KPMG, Linklaters, and Studio Inzaghi, under the coordination of Colliers as project manager.
The proposal, now under assessment by the Municipality of Verona, represents a gross investment of nearly €300 million. The project is expected to be financed primarily through private investment by the Club’s ownership, together with public participation in certain elements of the project at a level broadly consistent with comparable stadium developments. The objective is to transform the existing stadium into a modern, accessible, and multifunctional venue capable of operating well beyond matchdays and generating long-term economic and social benefits for Verona. Independent analysis submitted as part of the proposal indicates that the project would support thousands of job-years during construction and generate substantial recurring economic activity, added value, and employment once operational.
The project is designed to make the stadium an integral part of the life of the city, rather than a venue used primarily on matchdays. Restaurants, retail, corporate events, concerts, and other activities would create a year-round destination, bringing people to the area throughout the week and extending the stadium’s economic and social impact well beyond the football calendar. The development would also provide an opportunity to enhance the surrounding area, creating a more active, connected, and attractive destination for supporters, residents, and visitors alike.
At the same time, the new stadium represents an investment in the long-term future of Hellas Verona FC. Beyond traditional matchday revenues, the venue would enable the Club to develop new and diversified revenue streams through hospitality, sponsorship, non-football events, the Club museum, and stadium tours. This broader and more resilient revenue base would strengthen the Club’s financial sustainability and support its long-term sporting competitiveness.
A further key element of the project is ensuring continuity of the Club’s sporting activities throughout the approximately three-year construction period. Based on the current project timeline, completion of the new stadium is targeted for the 2031/32 season, subject to the necessary approvals and subsequent phases of the development process. To allow Hellas Verona to continue playing in the city during this time, the plan provides for the temporary expansion of the existing Olivieri facility in Via Sogare and improvements to the surrounding areas.
The investment would ultimately create a network of four football pitches, transforming a temporary requirement of the stadium project into a lasting opportunity to renew and improve the sporting infrastructure for Hellas Verona’s youth and women’s teams and, more broadly, for the city of Verona.
Hellas Verona looks forward to the next stages of the process and to working closely with the Municipality, supporters, local stakeholders, and the wider community to further develop the proposal and deliver a new stadium that creates lasting value for Verona.
Evolv Selected For Security Ops At Climate Pledge Arena
Evolv Technologies Holdings, Inc., a leading security technology company, has announced that the company has been selected as the new security screening provider at Climate Pledge Arena, one of the North America’s nation’s busiest sports and entertainment venues. Climate Pledge Arena selected Evolv Express® people screening systems to help enhance the arrival experience for millions of guests attending games, concerts, and other live events.
Climate Pledge Arena is home to the NHL’s Seattle Kraken, WNBA’s Seattle Storm, the PWHL’s Seattle Torrent, and a year-round schedule of concerts, family shows, and other live entertainment events. Since opening in 2021 following the redevelopment of Seattle’s historic arena site, the venue has become recognized not only for its fan experience and event programming, but also as the world’s first Zero Carbon Certified arena. Climate Pledge Arena is owned by One Roof Sports & Entertainment and operated by Oak View Group (OVG).
“At Climate Pledge Arena, we’re constantly looking for ways to enhance both security and the overall guest experience,” said Jim Dermody, Director of Security at Climate Pledge Arena. “After evaluating a number of screening solutions available, we selected Evolv Express because it aligns with our operational goals and our commitment to providing an efficient and welcoming arrival experience for fans, artists, athletes, and staff. Evolv’s approach closely matches our mission of delivering a safer and world-class experience for every guest. Throughout the evaluation process, Evolv’s technology demonstrated the performance and operational efficiency we were looking for in a long-term security solution.”
“As we continue expanding across professional hockey, Evolv is expected to be deployed at a significant number of NHL teams’ venues during the upcoming season, reflecting the growing adoption of modern security screening technology,” said John Baier, Vice President of Sports & Entertainment at Evolv Technology. “Climate Pledge Arena’s focus on innovation, operational excellence, and guest experience mirrors the values that drive our work, and we’re excited to help them welcome millions of visitors each year. While setting new standards for innovation and leadership across the industry.”
Climate Pledge Arena joins a growing roster of professional sports and entertainment venues that have selected Evolv to help support security operations while maintaining efficient entry experiences. The deployment further expands Evolv’s footprint across the Pacific Northwest, where the company also works with organizations including the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park, which expanded to a ballpark-wide implementation for the 2025 MLB season, as well as customers such as the University of Washington. Evolv also supports a growing number of schools, healthcare facilities, and other public-facing organizations throughout the region.
Woking FC Install New Floodlights at Laithwaite Community Stadium
Woking Football Club have confirmed the installation of new LED floodlights at the Laithwaite Community Stadium.
The upgraded floodlighting system represents another important investment in the Club’s home and its long-term infrastructure.
The new lights will be operational for the first time when Woking welcome Solihull Moors to the Laithwaite Community Stadium on Tuesday 29 September.
The project has been made possible through substantial investment from the Club’s ownership, alongside a grant from the Premier League Stadium Fund and a significant financial contribution from The Cards Trust, whose support has helped the Club complete the upgrade.
The installation of the new LED system is an important step forward for the stadium, improving the quality and efficiency of the floodlighting while supporting the Club’s ongoing ambition to develop the Laithwaite Community Stadium.
Managing Director, Robin Byrne said: “This is a really important investment for Woking Football Club and another milestone in the continued development of the Laithwaite Community Stadium.
“We are extremely grateful to the Premier League Stadium Fund for their support and to The Cards Trust for their financial contribution towards the project.
“The backing we receive from our supporters through the Trust makes a real difference, and this is a great example of the Club and its supporters working together to improve our home.
“We know how important the Laithwaite is to everyone connected with Woking Football Club, and it is fantastic to see these new floodlights now in place. We’re looking forward to seeing them switched on for the first time for our game against Solihull Moors.
“I’d like to thank everyone who has helped bring the project to completion. It’s another positive investment in the stadium and in the future of Woking Football Club.”
The new floodlights will provide a fitting backdrop when the Cards return to the Laithwaite Community Stadium under the lights against Solihull Moors on Tuesday evening.
Keast & Hood Joins Philadelphia Arena Project Team
Keast & Hood has announced its role on the project team for Philadelphia’s new sports and entertainment arena, planned for the historic Spectrum grounds in South Philadelphia. In collaboration with Thornton Tomasetti, Keast & Hood is serving as a structural engineering partner for the future home of the Philadelphia 76ers, Philadelphia Flyers, and the city’s first WNBA expansion team.
Targeted to open in 2030, the new arena represents a major investment in the future of Philadelphia sports, entertainment, and community life. The privately funded project is being developed by Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE) and Comcast Spectacor, with arena design led by global design firm Populous and architecture firm Moody Nolan.
The design draws inspiration from the legacy of the Spectrum while establishing a new identity for the next generation of Philadelphia sports. Stacked, cantilevered exterior bands will create a distinctive profile while expansive outdoor plazas and gathering spaces will connect the venue to the surrounding sports complex, creating new opportunities for year-round activity.
Designed as more than a home for professional sports, the arena will accommodate concerts, live entertainment, and community programming while delivering a next-generation experience for fans and visitors. The project is anticipated to create nearly 15,000 jobs and generate approximately $6 billion in economic activity over the next decade.
For Keast & Hood, the project represents an opportunity to contribute our structural engineering expertise to a transformative project in the city our firm has called home for more than 70 years.
“We are incredibly proud to be part of the team shaping the next chapter of Philadelphia’s sports legacy,” said Denise Richards, PE, Partner. “The scale, visibility, and significance of this project make it an extraordinary opportunity for our firm, and we look forward to collaborating with Thornton Tomasetti and the entire project team to help bring this vision to life.”
As the project advances through design, Keast & Hood looks forward to helping create a new Philadelphia landmark - one designed to carry forward the energy, history, and passion of the city’s sports community for generations to come.
Principality Stadium To Host Joshua v Fury in December
Following weeks of careful negotiation, the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has confirmed Cardiff’s Principality Stadium will host the biggest boxing event of the year as Anthony Joshua takes on Tyson Fury on the night of 11 December.
The fight will decide one of the greatest unfulfilled boxing rivalries of the modern era. For more than a decade Fury and Joshua have dominated British heavyweight boxing, held world titles and headlined major events, yet they have never faced each other professionally, until now.
Such is the level of global interest in the bout that the Joshua-Fury match-up is scheduled to take place in the early hours of morning, following a full night of world-class boxing in the Welsh capital. Global streaming giant Netflix will be carrying the event live, showcasing Wales and Principality Stadium to its estimated 325 million paid subscribers around the world.
Wales’ iconic Principality Stadium provides a perfect location for major boxing events with its maximum 80,000 capacity, closable roof, unrivalled sight lines and unique city-centre location.
WRU and Principality Stadium Chief Operating Officer Gavin Marshall said:
“We have a rich history of boxing in Cardiff, not just at Principality Stadium but throughout the city dating back over more than a century.
“Our ambition is to bring the very best international sporting and entertainment events to Cardiff and to Wales. The Joshua-Fury match-up, promises to be another huge night and we are delighted to be hosting this major must-see world-event at Principality Stadium.
“An enormous amount of work goes on behind the scenes to bring an event of this scale to Wales, and we look forward to continuing the work with Welsh Government, Cardiff Council, South Wales Police and our transport partners to bring this event to life. It’s been a real team effort!”
Welcoming today’s announcement, the Leader of Cardiff Council, Cllr Chris Weaver, said:
“Today’s announcement is exciting news for Cardiff and reflects the city’s continuing reputation as a destination for major sporting and entertainment events.
“This is one of the most anticipated bouts in British boxing history, and we are delighted that Cardiff has been chosen to host it.
“The contest at Principality Stadium has the potential to bring significant economic benefits to the city and attract visitors from across the UK and beyond.
“Major events provide a welcome boost for local businesses, support jobs, and showcase Cardiff to a global audience.
“There are still some arrangements to be finalised with the organisers, including any required changes to Principality Stadium’s premises licence, but we are looking forward to welcoming fans to the city for what promises to be an unforgettable night of boxing.”
The event remains subject to licence.
Daktronics Install New Video Board at Lane Stadium
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) unveiled a new video board in the end zone of Lane Stadium from Daktronics, a recognized industry leader in digital display and control system technology. The installation brings improved views of live video, replays, stats and more for Hokie fans to enjoy on game day in Blacksburg, Virginia.
“Delivering a best-in-class game-day experience is a priority for Virginia Tech Athletics, and that means continuing to invest in the ways we engage and connect with Hokie Nation,” said Virginia Tech Vice President and Director of Athletics Brian White. “Our partnership with Daktronics helps us elevate an already special environment at Lane Stadium through technology that brings our fans closer to the action and enhances the sights, sounds and traditions that make game days in Blacksburg unlike anywhere else.”
The new video display measures 44.5 feet high by 96 feet wide and features 10-millimeter pixel spacing to deliver clear image quality to fans throughout the stadium. The display also includes variable content zoning, allowing Virginia Tech to present one large image or multiple content zones to support game presentation, sponsorship messaging and fan engagement during every moment of the action.
“At such an exciting time for Hokie fans, Daktronics is proud to contribute to these enhancements at Lane Stadium,” said Charley Bocklet, region manager at Daktronics. “The upgraded dynamic video display and sound system are sure to elevate the game-day experience for fans.”
The upgrade also deployed a custom Daktronics audio system, which is integrated into the video and scoring system at Lane Stadium. It is engineered to deliver full-range sound reproduction and high-quality audio throughout the venue while providing a consistent fan experience at every seat. The project also included upgrades to the stadium’s audio infrastructure, delivering unified control and monitoring capabilities to help venue operators efficiently manage and maintain connected sound systems.
“While today’s video displays get bigger and brighter, so does the sound system,” said John Olsen, Daktronics audio sales representative. “New high-output speakers now flank the display with an additional subwoofer array, specifically designed for Daktronics, with new amplifiers powering the system. This new stadium system and all other upgrades provide a unified control and monitoring system that will help manage, maintain and troubleshoot every connected sound system in the venue. When it’s go time, this system is ready to rock the house!”
The project at Lane Stadium builds on previous technology enhancements at Virginia Tech. Daktronics previously installed LED ribbon boards and field-level displays at the stadium and integrated those displays into the overall experience for each game. In 2025, Daktronics also installed six new LED displays at Cassell Coliseum to support Hokie Athletics and other special events on campus.
SNA Displays Add New LED Pylon at Dignity Health Arena
SNA Displays recently completed construction of a new LED pylon for the Dignity Health Arena, Theater and Convention Center, a 10,000 seat multi-purpose arena owned by the City of Bakersfield and managed by ASM Global. The venue, previously known as Mechanics Bank Arena, is home to the American Hockey League’s Bakersfield Condors and hosts numerous games, concerts, shows, and other live events.
The upgraded sign system sports a much sleeker design than its outdated predecessor, incorporating illuminated graphics and a pair of higher-resolution LED screens, all as part of a freestanding pylon. The video displays are vertically oriented, each measuring 18′ tall x 10’6″ wide (552 x 320 pixels) and installed at a 30-degree angle to improve visibility for east- and west-bound traffic along Truxtun Avenue. The new pylon stands 36’6” tall and includes City of Bakersfield colors, channel lettering, and structural channel accent lighting.
Approving the new pylon development last year, Bakersfield City Council members noted a desire to improve the venue’s exterior and provide a better visitor experience: “This project aims to bring new appeal and functionality to attending events by providing a new LED Freestanding Marquee that enhances the exterior of the building and guest experience.” Officials also said the LED pylon will provide revenue for the city through digital out-of-home (DOOH) advertising, and arena clients will use the sign to provide themed content for their events.
“There’s such a wide array of diverse events held at the venue,” said Barbara Barry, director of sports and live events for SNA Displays. “The new dynamic LED pylon will greatly improve guest engagement and provide valuable revenue for the city.”
Technology consultant Anthony James Partners provided design, procurement, and construction administration services for the upgrade. Sign Factory provided demolition and LED installation services.
Newcastle United Announce Landmark Partnership with Coca-Cola
Newcastle United has announced Coca-Cola as the club’s Official Soft Drinks Partner in a multi-year deal which also sees the world-leading brand become the presenting partner of the popular St. James’ STACK fanzone.
This landmark deal builds on Newcastle United’s ambitious commercial momentum, bringing in one of the most recognisable brands on the planet and unlocking new opportunities to connect with the club’s global fanbase and a new generation of consumers.
At the heart of this partnership is a shared ambition to supercharge the matchday experience both in-person and through shareable digital moments blending football with music and culture.
As the official presenting partner of St. James’ STACK, Coca-Cola will transform the club’s premier entertainment hub into an electric epicenter of fan activity. Supporters can look forward to exclusive live music performances, immersive interactive fan zones, high-octane game-day giveaways, and VIP matchday experiences throughout the season.
Blending a creator-led approach with the power of traditional football rights, the partnership will deliver compelling content and experiences that extend beyond matchday, celebrating the culture surrounding the game and bringing fans closer to the club than ever before.
Commenting on the partnership, Newcastle United's Chief Revenue Officer, Dave O'Connor, said: "Coca-Cola has a long and rich history in sport, holding relationships with some of the biggest names in world football. We’re delighted to welcome such an esteemed partner to Newcastle United.
“Together, we’ll celebrate the things that make Newcastle such a proud and distinctive city: football, character, music, culture and, above all, the sense of celebration that brings people and communities together.
“From elevating the matchday experience at St James’ STACK to connecting with new audiences around the world, we’re excited about what we can create together."
Dusan Stojankic, General Manager at Coca-Cola Great Britain and Ireland added: “Newcastle United is a club that represents far more than football. From the incredible atmosphere at St. James’ Park to the deep connection between the club, the city and its supporters, there is something truly distinctive about it. Through this partnership, we look forward to creating unforgettable moments for fans and becoming part of the celebrations, traditions and experiences that bring the Newcastle United community together."
Evolv Express Installed at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium
Evolv Technologies Holdings, Inc., a leading security technology company pioneering AI-powered solutions designed to create safer experiences, today announced that the University of Memphis has selected Evolv Express®, the company’s people-screening system, for deployment at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, home of Memphis Tigers football. Installation of the Evolv Express Gen2 systems was completed late last month ahead of the upcoming football season.
As one of the premier collegiate athletic programs in the American Conference, the University of Memphis welcomes almost two hundred thousand fans to Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium throughout the football season. As fan expectations continue to evolve and venues seek to balance security with convenience, the university selected Evolv Express as their Official Patron Screening Provider to support its efforts to streamline the arrival experience.
Evolv Express uses advanced sensor technology and artificial intelligence to help detect potential threats while allowing guests to move through security checkpoints at their natural walking pace. The deployment will replace the venue’s existing screening solution and support the university’s efforts to provide a more welcoming and efficient game day environment for Tigers fans.
“Today’s sports and entertainment venues are increasingly focused on creating arrival experiences that are both secure and convenient for guests,” said John Baier, Vice President of Sports & Entertainment at Evolv Technology. “The University of Memphis evaluated its options and made the decision to transition to Evolv Express because of our shared commitment to delivering an exceptional fan experience as well as the technical performance of the Evolv system. We’re proud to support Memphis Athletics and help welcome fans to Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium as the program continues investing in the future of game day.”
“Safety and guest experience go hand in hand,” said Tabrian Arnold, Associate Athletic Director, Capital Projects & Operations. “Evolv allows us to enhance our security screening while providing fans with a faster, more efficient entry into the stadium. It’s an important investment in creating a modern gameday experience.”
The University of Memphis joins a growing roster of collegiate athletic programs and venues, as well as entertainment venues such as Nissan Stadium, that have adopted Evolv to help support security objectives while creating more efficient entry experiences for fans. See Evolv’s online screening ticker to track how many people and bags Evolv screens in real time. Evolv’s solutions are used across some of the world’s most iconic venues, as well as schools, healthcare facilities, workplaces, and public gathering spaces.