Atlético de Madrid Partners With Hewlett Packard Enterprise to Upgrade Riyadh Air Metropolitano With AI-Driven Smart Connectivity.

Roger Hampel

Image: Atlético de Madrid

Atlético de Madrid has launched a multi-season technology upgrade at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, partnering with Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) to deploy an AI-managed network infrastructure aimed at enhancing stadium performance, operational efficiency and supporter connectivity.

The project will see the installation of more than 1,500 AI-managed WiFi access points, forming part of a two-phase rollout scheduled across the 2025/26 and 2026/27 seasons.

AI-Managed Network as Core Stadium Infrastructure Atlético de Madrid

The modernisation plan positions the Riyadh Air Metropolitano among Europe’s most technologically advanced venues. The new infrastructure will be managed via HPE Aruba Central, an AI-driven IT operations platform designed to monitor, optimise and predict network demand in real time.

Sustainability Through Energy-Optimised Access Points

A key component of the upgrade is the implementation of Green AP technology, enabling access points to enter deep power-saving mode when inactive. The system is expected to significantly reduce electricity consumption across the stadium, aligning with Atlético de Madrid’s broader sustainability commitments.

The integration of AI analytics will also provide heat mapping and movement analysis capabilities, supporting improved crowd flow management, security operations and logistical planning inside the venue.

Operational and Revenue Implications

Óscar Mayo, Atlético’s General Director of Revenue and Operations, stated that the upgrade will expand the stadium’s capabilities beyond bandwidth provision, allowing the club to operate a “smart network” capable of supporting additional digital services.