06 Feb Ensuring Safety and Security at Major Sporting Events
Andreas Beerbaum, Vice President of Global Sales and Services for Hexagon’s Safety, Infrastructure & Geospatial division, shares insights based on extensive experience preparing host cities for the upcoming Winter Olympics.
As 2026 approaches, excitement is building for major sporting events around the world. From the Winter Olympics to the highly anticipated FIFA World Cup, host cities are gearing up for the challenge of keeping both residents and visitors safe and secure. With athletes ready to showcase their talents, the pressure is on not just for the competitors but also for the teams tasked with their security.
Successfully managing safety during these events involves advanced planning and execution. Athletes and safety teams share a common objective: utilizing cutting-edge technology and training to enhance responsiveness, make quick decisions, and adapt to ever-changing situations. Hexagon has significant experience in this area, having supported various host cities including Paris, London, and Rio de Janeiro, dating back to Calgary in 1986.
Building an Integrated Safety Ecosystem
Prioritizing the safety of participants and spectators means constructing a cohesive security ecosystem that extends beyond just the competition areas. Hosting a major sporting event usually brings about substantial investments in infrastructure—new venues, enhanced public spaces, accommodations, commercial developments, and improved transportation systems—all aimed at fostering a globally recognized image while leaving a lasting legacy. Alongside these developments, security professionals and public safety organizations work closely to identify potential risks and coordinate swift responses to various scenarios.
Evolution of Security Technology
Video surveillance has always been a fundamental aspect of security preparations. Over the years, technology has advanced from analog systems to IP cameras, with recent innovations including body-worn cameras, facial recognition systems, and drone surveillance. For instance, as preparations ramp up in Mexico City for upcoming soccer matches, officials plan to deploy 40,000 additional cameras to enhance security. In addition to video solutions, a multitude of other technologies plays a crucial role, including access control systems, perimeter security solutions, alarm systems, and various sensors.
Case Study: The Integrated Approach in Action
To demonstrate how these technologies work in concert, one host city implemented a holistic safety solution that unified multiple data sources for a clearer operational picture. Systems such as video feeds, audio communications, radio transmissions, geolocation, and web inputs were integrated into a single framework. With thousands of cameras feeding into a central video management system, authorities utilized an advanced command and control center equipped with 40 desktop workstations to manage operations efficiently. Through collaboration with local law enforcement, automated response plans and flexible workflows were developed to optimize coordination.
This comprehensive setup allowed rapid detection of issues like overcrowding, loitering, unattended items, and perimeter breaches. It also ensured the protection of critical infrastructure while facilitating effective traffic management and monitoring illegal parking.
The Importance of Real-Time Coordination
Such integration becomes vital during events with fast-paced schedules and large crowds. A single incident—be it a malfunctioning train or an unexpected demonstration—can disrupt the experience for thousands and potentially leave stadiums empty, an unwelcome sight to a global audience. A unified, real-time overview enables teams to respond decisively, whether that involves rerouting traffic or executing a complete stadium evacuation.
Leveraging Safety Technology for Operational Efficiency
Not only does safety technology play a crucial role during high-stakes events, but it can also streamline event operations. Large-scale competitions like triathlons or marathons may span extensive areas, and effective monitoring can drastically improve decision-making. For example, a renowned racetrack in France employs its Video Management System (VMS) throughout the year for security purposes, as well as providing race marshals with up-to-the-minute visuals during races, further justifying the value of their technology investment.
Adapting to Ongoing Challenges
While only a few cities may host the world’s largest sporting events, many urban areas encounter similar security challenges during seasonal tourism, game days, festivals, and large public gatherings. As cities navigate changing geopolitical landscapes and rising public safety expectations, continuous evaluation of preparedness is essential. By fostering security-minded environments, cities can ensure better protection for their people, places, and infrastructure.
