Verizon has detailed plans to provide Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) and private 5G network services at this summer's FIFA World Cup.

The US carrier is the official telecommunications partner for the event, set to take place in the US, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19. Verizon secured the connectivity contract back in 2024.

MetLife Stadium
The MetLife Stadium will host the World Cup final on July 19 – Getty Images

Ahead of the tournament, Verizon has provided details around how its technology will support connectivity across host stadiums, both inside and outside of these grounds.

The telco revealed that private 5G networks will be deployed in host stadiums to support critical applications, such as referee body cameras.

Beyond this, the private networks will also power FIFA Fan Festival locations, where the carrier's 5G and fiber infrastructure will offer connectivity for public-facing operations.

Verizon's FWA offering will also be on hand during the tournament. The company said it will leverage its 5G ultra-wideband network to support pop-up activations, retail and merchandise locations for fans, plus logistics/back-office capabilities.

The carrier will work with FIFA to provide 5G network slicing to support certain use cases, though didn't specify what those applications would be.

"Seeing our advanced 5G and fiber networks create seamless, unforgettable experiences for fans, and knowing our investment will leave a lasting digital legacy for the host cities, truly underscores our commitment to connecting people to what matters most to them,“ said Kyle Malady, CEO, Verizon Business.

During the World Cup, Verizon is also working with FIFA to support broadcasters via its fiber network, which will host the Broadcast Contribution Network (BCN).

Verizon notes that it expects spectators to consume more than 50 terabytes of data within a stadium for each match. To support these demands, the carrier said it has bolstered its 5G network by adding more spectrum to boost capacity by an estimated three to five times across all host stadiums.

Thousands of antennas have been installed by Verizon under seats, plus "massive ball-shaped antennas" to provide targeted 4G and 5G coverage for fans in higher sections.

Verizon has also deployed nearly 140 small cells and temporary cell sites in the surrounding areas to the host venues.

Meanwhile, Verizon's first responders network, Verizon Frontline, will be leveraged to provide support during the FIFA World Cup.

In total, 48 teams are set to take part in this year's World Cup, making it the largest ever by number of participants.