5G in Sports: Ericsson and Vodafone’s Private Network Solution for the Irish Rugby

Ericsson and Vodafone have introduced a 5G Mobile Private Network (MPN) technology for the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU). This innovation offers swift, real-time data analysis, enabling superior communication and strategic decisions during matches, particularly as the team preps for the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
5G in Sports: Ericsson and Vodafone's Private Network Solution for the Irish Rugby
Image Credit: Ericsson, Vodafone, and Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU)

Ericsson and Vodafone’s 5G Mobile Private Network Solution


The sports landscape has rapidly evolved, with technology playing an integral role in this transformation. While there have been several game-changers, the Mobile Private Network, especially when powered by 5G, stands tall. In high-stakes sports like rugby, this technology ensures speed, reliability, and real-time data processing, making it indispensable.

Central to this technological transformation is the 5G Standalone Mobile Private Network (MPN) solution developed by industry leaders Ericsson and Vodafone. Unlike conventional networks prone to lags or congestion, this MPN offers dedicated, high-speed connectivity, setting it apart from its counterparts.

The collaboration with the Irish rugby team showcases the solution’s prowess. Integrated artificial intelligence processes video streams in real-time, gleaning insights and patterns that can be instrumental in-game strategies. This isn’t just data analytics; it’s a new era of sports intelligence powered by Mobile Private Networks.

Redefining Analysis: The 5G-Integrated Drone’s Role

The partnership introduces a 5G-connected drone, a collaborative venture of Ericsson and Vodafone. This drone provides an aerial perspective, capturing unique angles and offering a comprehensive view of the game dynamics.

With the capabilities of the Mobile Private Network, these high-resolution captures from the drone are instantly accessible, ensuring analysts don’t miss any critical game moments. In a sport as fast-paced as rugby, such insights can be the difference between victory and defeat.

The Global Potential: Beyond Rugby with Ericsson and Vodafone’s 5G MPN

The implications of the 5G Mobile Private Network extend far beyond rugby. The combined expertise of Ericsson and Vodafone can revolutionize other sports, from basketball to tennis. The high-speed data processing and real-time analytics provided by the MPN can redefine coaching methodologies, game strategies, and player training regimes.

Additionally, fans stand to gain immensely. Imagine leveraging the power of 5G to enjoy immersive experiences, whether it’s a VR tour of the stadium or an AR-enhanced match viewing.

Conclusion: The Future Paved by Ericsson, Vodafone, and 5G

The alliance between Ericsson, Vodafone, and the IRFU isn’t just a fleeting partnership for a tournament. It marks a new era in sports, underpinned by the might of the Mobile Private Network powered by 5G. As the world keenly watches the 2023 Rugby World Cup, it won’t just be about the matches but also about this trailblazing trinity of sports, technology, and innovation.


Recent Content

In 2025, 5G surpasses 2.25 billion global connections, marking a pivotal shift toward mainstream adoption. While North America leads in performance and per capita usage, challenges in spectrum policy and enterprise integration remain. This in-depth report from 5G Americas explores the rise of Standalone 5G, the promise of 5G-Advanced, the reality of private network deployments, and the need for smart, forward-looking spectrum strategy.
Low-code platforms like VC4’s Service2Create (S2C) are transforming telecom operations by accelerating service delivery, reducing manual tasks, and simplifying integration with legacy systems. Discover how this technology drives digital transformation, improves efficiency, and future-proofs telecom networks.
Nokia, Digita, and CoreGo have partnered to roll out private 5G networks and edge computing solutions at high-traffic event venues. Using Nokia’s Digital Automation Cloud (DAC) and CoreGo’s payment and access tech, the trio delivers real-time data flow, reliable connectivity, and enhanced guest experience across Finland and international locations—serving over 2 million attendees to date.
AI Pulse: Telecom’s Next Frontier is a definitive guide to how AI is reshaping the telecom landscape — strategically, structurally, and commercially. Spanning over 130 pages, this MWC 2025 special edition explores AI’s growing maturity in telecom, offering a comprehensive look at the technologies and trends driving transformation.

Explore strategic AI pillars—from AI Ops and Edge AI to LLMs, AI-as-a-Service, and governance—and learn how telcos are building AI-native architectures and monetization models. Discover insights from 30+ global CxOs, unpacking shifts in leadership thinking around purpose, innovation, and competitive advantage.

The edition also examines connected industries at the intersection of Private 5G, AI, and Satellite—fueling transformation in smart manufacturing, mobility, fintech, ports, sports, and more. From fan engagement to digital finance, from smart cities to the industrial metaverse, this is the roadmap to telecom’s next era—where intelligence is the new infrastructure, and telcos become the enablers of everything connected.
In The Gateway to a New Future, top global telecom leaders—Marc Murtra (Telefónica), Vicki Brady (Telstra), Sunil Bharti Mittal (Airtel), Biao He (China Mobile), and Benedicte Schilbred Fasmer (Telenor)—share bold visions for reshaping the industry. From digital sovereignty and regulatory reform in Europe, to AI-powered smart cities in China and fintech platforms in Africa, these executives reveal how telecom is evolving into a driving force of global innovation, inclusion, and collaboration. The telco of tomorrow is not just a network—it’s a platform for economic and societal transformation.
In Beyond Connectivity: The Telco to Techco Transformation, leaders from e&, KDDI, and MTN reveal how telecoms are evolving into technology-first, platform-driven companies. These digital pioneers are integrating AI, 5G, cloud, smart infrastructure, and fintech to unlock massive value—from AI-powered smart cities in Japan, to inclusive fintech platforms in Africa, and cloud-first enterprise solutions in the Middle East. This piece explores how telcos are reshaping their role in the digital economy—building intelligent, scalable, and people-first tech ecosystems.
Whitepaper
Explore the Private Network Edition of 5G Magazine, your guide to the latest in private 5G/LTE and CBRS networks. This edition spotlights 11 award categories including private 5G/LTE leader, neutral host leader, and rising startups. It features insights from industry leaders like Jason Wallin of John Deere and an analysis...
Whitepaper
Discover the potential of mobile networks in modern warfare through our extensive whitepaper. Dive into its strategic significance, understand its security risks, and gain insights on optimizing mobile networks in critical situations. An essential guide for defense planners and cybersecurity enthusiasts....

It seems we can't find what you're looking for.

Download Magazine

With Subscription

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Scroll to Top