Weekly SportsTech Recap | February 4th
?? SailGP partners with Ericsson to power 5G-driven race analytics
SailGP has teamed up with Ericsson as its global technology supplier for the 2025 season, bringing cutting-edge 5G connectivity to its high-speed sailing competition. Ericsson’s Private 5G and Cradlepoint edge routers will enhance real-time data sharing, enabling teams to optimize race strategies and improving officiating through live camera streaming. This advanced connectivity will also boost the fan experience by delivering instant insights into race analytics. Following successful tests in the U.S. last season, SailGP will now roll out Ericsson’s solution worldwide, reinforcing its commitment to innovation in competitive sailing.
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?? EHF extends Kinexon partnership to enhance handball tech through 2028
The European Handball Federation has extended its collaboration with Kinexon Sports, securing real-time tracking technology for the next six EHF European Championship tournaments. This renewed deal ensures the continued use of Kinexon’s iBall and player-tracking system at the men’s and women’s Euros in 2026 and 2028. The partnership aims to enhance fan engagement and provide deeper performance insights for teams and analysts. Moving forward, EHF and Kinexon will also explore new technological innovations to further integrate data-driven advancements into the sport.
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?? F1 star Charles Leclerc invests in sleep tech company Eight Sleep
Ferrari Formula One driver Charles Leclerc has joined sleep fitness company Eight Sleep as both an investor and brand ambassador. The partnership highlights the growing focus on sleep optimization for elite athletes, with Leclerc using Eight Sleep’s Pod system to track recovery and improve performance throughout the 2025 F1 season. He joins a roster of over 300 athletes, including Aaron Judge and Jimmy Butler, who rely on the company’s smart sleep technology. Eight Sleep continues to push innovation in the space, reinforcing sleep as a key pillar of athletic success and overall wellness.
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?? NHL introduces animated recap show to engage young fans
The NHL is launching NHL HOCKEYVERSE Matchup of the Week, a 30-minute animated recap show designed to bring hockey action to life in a fresh, engaging way. Using NHL EDGE tracking data and Sony’s Beyond Sports technology, the show will recreate real matchups with animated player avatars and immersive visuals. Aimed at younger audiences, it will feature teenage commentators in avatar form, offering fun insights and storytelling. Airing weekly on Sportsnet, NHL Network, and YouTube, this initiative builds on the league’s push for innovative, interactive broadcasts to attract the next generation of fans.
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?? 49ers partner with NetApp to upgrade Levi’s Stadium tech
The San Francisco 49ers have signed a multi-year partnership with data infrastructure firm NetApp to enhance technology at Levi’s Stadium. As a Founding Level partner, NetApp will implement intelligent data solutions to improve concession and restroom wait times, mobile ticketing, and overall fan experience. The deal also includes sponsorship of the 49ers’ 2025 NFL Draft activities and the Horizon Summit data conference. With Levi’s Stadium set to host FIFA World Cup matches in 2026, this partnership aims to position the venue as a leader in tech-driven sports and entertainment experiences.
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?? FIBA teams up with ScorePlay to streamline digital content distribution
FIBA has partnered with AI-powered media management platform ScorePlay to enhance its digital workflows and content distribution. This multi-year agreement will automate the indexing, management, and sharing of digital assets, helping national federations, leagues, and clubs streamline their media operations. ScorePlay’s tools will support FIBA’s broadcast and digital partners, ensuring efficient delivery of non-live content and archive materials. The collaboration aims to boost fan engagement and modernize basketball’s digital ecosystem, reinforcing the sport’s global reach through innovative media solutions.
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?? McLaren F1 partners with Okta to boost digital security
McLaren Racing has signed a multi-year partnership with identity management firm Okta to enhance its digital security and access management. Okta’s branding will appear on McLaren’s F1 cars and drivers’ race suits, while its technology will help streamline secure access for fans, partners, and employees. The collaboration aims to improve McLaren’s digital infrastructure, ensuring seamless and protected interactions across its platforms. With this deal, McLaren continues to expand its tech-driven partnerships alongside brands like Mastercard and T-Mobile, reinforcing its commitment to innovation both on and off the track.
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?? Kings League partners with Serie A to expand digital football in Italy
The Kings League has announced a partnership with Italy’s Serie A, aiming to bring innovative football experiences to a new generation of fans. This collaboration will focus on joint events, content, and activities, blending Kings League’s digital-first approach with Serie A’s rich tradition. The league, founded by Gerard Piqué, has already attracted Italian legends like Totti, Del Piero, and Buffon. With a broadcast deal on Sky Italia, this expansion strengthens Kings League’s presence in Italy as it continues its global growth into new markets like Brazil, North America, and the Middle East.
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?? Output Sports secures $4.8M to drive U.S. expansion in SportsTech
Irish sports tech startup Output Sports has raised $4.8 million in pre-Series A funding to accelerate its expansion into the U.S. market. The funding round, led by Uni.Fund with new investors APEX Capital and Dopamine Sports, will support hiring and product development as the company scales. Output Sports, a University College Dublin spin-out, uses wearable sensor technology to track and analyze athletic performance. Already working with over 800 sports organizations, including Premier League, NFL, and NBA teams, the company aims to further establish itself as a leader in sports data and performance analytics.