The world of sports is rapidly evolving with new technologies transforming the fan experience and behind-the-scenes operations. From high-speed Wi-Fi allowing fans to share their experiences in real time to data analytics that track player performance, digital innovations are improving countless parts of the sporting world. However, this growing reliance on technology and connectivity also brings significant cybersecurity risks.
Large sports organizations are now prime targets for cyberattacks that could disrupt their operations, expose sensitive data and damage their reputation and revenue. A single breach could shut down stadium systems, disable online ticket sales, compromise customer data or trigger ransomware demands. These risks highlight why robust cybersecurity must be a top priority as the sports industry embarks on digital transformation.
Leading this charge is Fortinet, a global leader in cybersecurity in partnership with the legendary football club FC Barcelona. Fortinet has been selected as the official cybersecurity partner for FC Barcelona’s ambitious Espai Barça project, which includes the renovation of its iconic Camp Nou stadium into an international innovation hub over the coming years.
“Building on Fortinet’s history of cybersecurity innovation spanning more than 20 years, we are proud to support FC Barcelona’s ambitious vision to create an international innovation hub powered by by cutting-edge and cutting-edge technologies,” comments John Maddison, Chief Marketing Officer of Fortinet. “Our shared goal of making Spotify Camp Nou one of the premier stadiums in the world is made possible by leveraging the Fortinet Security Fabric platform to secure its digital environment. »
Fortinet and FC Barcelona: cybersecurity improves the experience of visitors and users
Under the multi-year agreement through 2028, Fortinet will implement its advanced Security Fabric platform to secure the end-to-end digital environment at Spotify Camp Nou – from stadium WiFi and operational technology to data centers. This includes next-generation firewalls, zero trust access, endpoint security and centralized management with AI-driven analytics to protect users, devices, applications and data.
AI has been the backbone of Fortinet Security Fabric and FortiGuard Labs’ threat intelligence and security services for more than a decade, and the company recently announced the implementation of Fortinet Advisora Generative AI Assistant (GenAI), to its portfolio of more than 40 AI-based offerings to help upskill cybersecurity teams.