The Ryder Cup was victorious at the prestigious Sports Technology Awards in London last night, winning in the Event of the Year category for the technology rolled out in Rome last year.
The annual Sports Technology Awards recognise innovators across the global sporting landscape who are using the latest technologies to enhance the experience for all stakeholders, whether that be fans, athletes, or partners. The Ryder Cup beat stiff competition from Wimbledon, the ICC World Cup and The Ocean Race to win the accolade.
The 2023 Ryder Cup in Rome had a vision - to match the gladiatorial contest inside the ropes, with a rich amphitheatre of technology that would elevate the fan experience for the 272,000 attendees. A mini smart city was built from scratch in the middle of the Italian countryside, with a tech infused Intelligent Course, including the largest deployment of Wi-Fi 6e at a sporting event, which managed to successfully bridge the gap between armchair fan and on-course spectator.
Speaking about the victory Michael Cole, Chief Technology Officer of the European Tour group, said: “The technology strategy for Rome 2023 was based on three Es – to create engagement, excitement and a lasting experience. Engagement through location-based services and targeting with relevant rich media content, generating excitement through new course features that got fans closer to the action, and ensuring that it was one of the best sporting events they’ve ever experienced with a seamless end-to-end experience. The feedback we had from fans and partners after the event has been incredible, and it is a real honour to now be recognised by our industry peers in this way.”
