In a significant advancement for sports venue technology, Verizon Communications Inc. has collaborated with the Denver Broncos to enhance operations and fan experiences at Empower Field at Mile High. As of December 11, 2025, the stadium has undergone a comprehensive upgrade, featuring the installation of Wi-Fi 6E and an extensive Local Area Network (LAN) to provide an unparalleled game-day experience for fans and operational efficiency for the team.

2. A Commitment to Excellence

Daniel Brusilovsky, Chief Technology Officer of the Denver Broncos, expressed the team's dedication to providing a mobile-friendly experience to every fan. “At Empower Field at Mile High, we strive for excellence and take pride in creating a mobile-friendly experience for every fan who walks through the gates,” he stated. The recent partnership with Verizon signifies a substantial investment in technology aimed at delivering exceptional experiences year-round.

3. Enhanced Connectivity and Operations

With the new network installation, fans attending games can expect fast and reliable public Wi-Fi access on their devices. The upgraded infrastructure not only enhances fan connectivity but also streamlines operational processes for both front and back-office teams. This upgrade includes essential functionalities such as Point of Sale (POS) systems, surveillance, crowd management, digital ticketing, sustainability initiatives, and access control measures, ensuring that operations run smoothly during events.

4. Best-in-Class Network Deployment

Verizon has completely overhauled the stadium's legacy Wi-Fi network, implementing a state-of-the-art solution designed to support the stadium's capacity of 76,125. This new network backbone leverages a dedicated 6GHz frequency band, facilitating easier management and scalability for IT teams. The adoption of WPA3, a cutting-edge Wi-Fi security standard, enhances encryption and security features, safeguarding sensitive operational data and ensuring secure communications.

5. Transformative Technology Approach

Massimo Peselli, Chief Revenue Officer of Verizon Business, highlighted the transformative nature of this deployment, stating, “Our holistic approach to a major venue network transformation uses a mix of 5G and advanced technologies to tailor a high-performance connectivity ecosystem.” This strategic enhancement not only redefines the stadium experience but also lays the groundwork for future innovations, ultimately enriching the fan experience during and beyond the 2024-2025 season.

6. 5G Integration and Infrastructure

Leading up to the 2023-2024 season, Verizon also implemented significant 5G upgrades to the stadium's network. This included the installation of 965 antennas that deliver a combination of LTE and millimeter wave (mmWave) 5G coverage, allowing fans to experience high-speed connectivity throughout the venue and in tailgating areas. Additionally, Verizon operates the stadium's neutral host distributed antenna system (DAS), further enhancing connectivity.

7. Verizon’s Vision for Connected Venues

Verizon's Connected Venues initiative is designed to integrate public and private network capabilities along with a robust technology ecosystem. This strategy aims to provide reliable connectivity that enables leagues, teams, and stadium operators to redefine operations within sports venues. The collaboration with the Denver Broncos exemplifies Verizon’s commitment to empowering the future of sports and enhancing overall venue operations.

8. Conclusion

As Verizon Communications Inc. continues to innovate and expand its technological footprint, the partnership with the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High serves as a prime example of how advanced connectivity solutions can transform the fan experience and optimize operational efficiencies. With a focus on security, speed, and reliability, Verizon is poised to lead the way in the evolution of sports venues, ensuring that fans enjoy a next-level experience for years to come.

Original press release