Real Madrid and Cisco Strengthen Digital Alliance with Bernabeu Tech Upgrades

Real Madrid has announced an expanded multi-year partnership with global technology giant Cisco, reinforcing its status as one of the most digitally advanced clubs in world sport. The agreement will see Cisco become Real Madrid’s official technology partner, supporting a range of infrastructure upgrades across both the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium and the club’s training and innovation centre at Real Madrid City.

This enhanced alliance builds on Cisco’s existing role in the Bernabéu’s digital transformation, which has already included the rollout of one of Europe’s first software-defined stadium networks. With this latest phase, Real Madrid will implement new Cisco technology across Wi-Fi connectivity, data infrastructure and AI-enabled analytics to create an integrated, scalable ecosystem that spans its playing and training facilities.

At the heart of the project is the installation of a high-performance data centre at Real Madrid City, enabling faster and more energy-efficient data processing. The site will now act as the digital nerve centre for both training operations and matchday activities, with a direct 100Gbps Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI) link to the Bernabéu. This ensures seamless communication between both hubs, allowing for the real-time deployment of fan engagement, broadcast and security services.

Wi-Fi 7 connectivity will also be introduced across Real Madrid City, providing ultra-fast wireless speeds and low-latency access for players, staff and guests. The upgrades are designed not only to enhance performance analysis and training technologies but also to future-proof the club’s digital infrastructure for AI-powered applications and sustainability initiatives.

For Cisco, the expanded partnership is a showcase of how its end-to-end enterprise solutions can be applied in elite sports environments. The company’s infrastructure already powers more than 2,500 connected screens and a sophisticated IPTV system at the Bernabéu, delivering rich content experiences to fans both in-venue and across digital platforms.

The deal also positions Real Madrid as a central node in Cisco’s growing sports portfolio, which includes partnerships with the NFL, NBA and several major European football clubs. The timing aligns with the Bernabéu’s emergence as a multi-use venue, with the stadium set to host its first NFL regular season game in 2025.