NHL renews sponsorship deal with Verizon

The National Hockey League (NHL) has announced the extension of its sponsorship agreement with Verizon in the United States, accompanied by an initiative to install private 5G networks in NHL arenas.

Under the renewed contract, Verizon retains its status as the NHL’s official 5G partner, official wireless service partner and official mobile edge computing partner in the US. The implementation of private 5G networks within NHL arenas is set to revolutionise various aspects of the game, powering essential business applications and on-ice technologies.

One of the notable advancements facilitated by the 5G network includes enhancing the capabilities of referee iPads, which are instrumental in reviewing critical decisions during games. The network will support video coaching applications, contributing to a more efficient and streamlined officiating process.

Verizon is also committed to enhancing the in-arena 5G coverage to elevate the fan experience during NHL games.

This partnership builds upon Verizon’s designation as the NHL’s official 5G partner in the US since 2020, showcasing the operator’s ongoing efforts to enhance in-arena coverage and leverage cutting-edge technologies to enrich the hockey experience for fans and stakeholders alike.

“The passion for innovation and the work already done in partnership with Verizon makes this renewal even more exciting for us,” said David Lehanski, NHL Executive Vice President of Business Development and Innovation.

“Creating the solutions and experiences of tomorrow is not only a function of applying cutting-edge technologies from world-class companies, it’s also a function of being able to truly collaborate with them to uncover meaningful new use cases. In Verizon, we have a partner that listens before bringing to bear their industry-best knowledge and solution set.”

The implementation of the iPad-based replay review system, currently undergoing trials at the New Jersey Devils’ Prudential Centre, shows the continued evolution of technological innovations in the NHL.

Fans will have the opportunity to witness Verizon’s advanced technology in action during the upcoming Stadium Series games at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on February 17 and 18, showcasing the seamless integration of cutting-edge connectivity solutions within the hockey landscape.