BT, SailGP & Ericsson Launch 5G Slicing in Portsmouth, UK
BT is delivering two dedicated 5G Standalone network slices tailored to the specific operational demands of SailGP, working in close collaboration with Ericsson, SailGP’s global technology partner. It marks the first time BT has deployed multiple concurrent network slices at a single event.
Unlike traditional mobile networks, network slicing allows the creation of virtual, dedicated partitions within the 5G network. These slices provide guaranteed levels of performance, unaffected by public network congestion, a key benefit during large-scale events such as SailGP, where thousands of spectators and personnel rely on stable, high-speed connectivity.
Purpose-built connectivity for critical operations
BT’s provision of multiple network slices ensures priority access to crucial digital services.
- Boat connectivity: BT’s slice supports seamless roaming between private and public 5G networks for all 12 competing F50 foiling catamarans. It enables uninterrupted voice communications, telemetry data transmission and on-board video. All these aspects are critical for performance, safety and fan engagement. Point-of-sale systems: A dedicated slice ensures fast and reliable payments in SailGP’s merchandise shop, located within the Race Stadium, enhancing the fan experience and supporting commercial operations.
- Point-of-sale systems: A dedicated slice ensures fast and reliable payments in SailGP’s merchandise shop, located within the Race Stadium, enhancing the fan experience and supporting commercial operations.
- Broadcast innovation: Working in partnership with Sony, BT is trialling the use of roaming Full HD cameras connected via a high-capacity uplink slice. Sony’s low-latency encoders ensure live feeds can be transmitted globally, supporting a broadcast that reaches 212 countries.
- Real-time media access: Select event photographers are benefiting from Sony’s connected camera solution, featuring Sony Alpha models and PDT-FP1 transmitters, which enable them to upload high-quality images to global media outlets instantly.
Enhancing immersive fan experiences
A new highlight for UK fans is SailGP’s 360-degree AR/VR experience, designed to simulate the thrill of being onboard an F50.
The immersive activation is powered by next-generation 5G radios being trialled by BT and Ericsson in Portsmouth, capable of ultra-low latency and gigabit-level performance. It exemplifies the evolving intersection between sport and technology, offering spectators a truly connected, cutting-edge experience.
Kerry Small, Chief Operating Officer, Business at BT Group, commented: “5G Standalone isn’t just about faster speeds – it’s about unlocking tailor-made capabilities that can transform customer experiences.
"In partnership with SailGP, we’ve demonstrated this by using network slicing to streamline event operations and bring fans closer to the action than ever before.
"It’s a powerful example of how we’re evolving the UK’s best network to deliver next-generation connectivity and more immersive experiences.”
Warren Jones, Chief Technology Officer at SailGP, adds: “Bringing SailGP back to UK shores after three years is a major milestone and delivering a world-class, tech-driven event is critical to the success of it. Partnering with BT has allowed us to push the boundaries of what’s possible in sports connectivity.
"In a first for SailGP, BT’s use of 5G standalone network slicing ensures the global championship can maintain real-time communications, telemetry and live video from the racecourse – the collaboration showcases how cutting-edge connectivity can transform the delivery of global sporting events.”
Building on a growing portfolio of 5G deployments
BT’s work at SailGP builds on its growing experience with 5G Standalone deployments. Previous rollouts at Wembley Stadium and the Belfast Christmas Market have demonstrated the network’s versatility in supporting both high-density crowds and specialised services.
EE’s 5G Standalone network – launched less than a year ago – now covers more than 30 million people across more than 50 major UK towns and cities, with more than 45% of the population within reach of the advanced connectivity.
For businesses exploring the future of real-time connectivity and digital engagement, the SailGP collaboration offers a compelling proof point of what’s possible when cutting-edge technology meets global sporting ambition.
