Samsung is preparing to transform Mexican stadiums and tourism hubs into high-tech testing grounds ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The company plans to deploy an advanced digital layer across host cities to manage the massive influx of visitors expected during the tournament.
This infrastructure initiative focuses on integrating hardware with cloud-based analytics to streamline operations for venue managers. By leveraging Internet of Things (IoT) devices and connected displays, the company aims to reduce congestion and improve service delivery in high-traffic areas.
Transforming the fan experience
Lizbeth Carmona, director of B2B at Samsung Mexico, says the tournament serves as a high-stakes stress test for the country's digital capacity. She notes that the project goes beyond simple screen installation.
“Pantallas conectadas, aplicaciones móviles, analítica en la nube e Internet de las Cosas redefinen la manera en que estadios, aeropuertos, hoteles, centros comerciales y zonas de hospitalidad administran flujos de personas, venden más y operan con menos fricción, ya que será una prueba de estrés para esa capa digital,” Carmona said.
The strategy targets several critical sectors simultaneously. Airports and hotels will implement smart monitoring systems to track crowd movements, while stadiums will utilize connected displays to offer real-time updates and targeted retail experiences for fans.
Samsung executives view the World Cup as a unique opportunity to demonstrate how enterprise technology can solve logistical challenges in real time. The focus remains on creating a frictionless environment where data helps staff manage crowd flow and operational efficiency during peak hours.
Beyond stadiums, the digital integration extends to shopping centers and hospitality zones within the host cities. These areas will serve as secondary hubs for fans, requiring the same level of connectivity and data management as the venues themselves.
By building this technical foundation now, the company intends to provide a blueprint for how large-scale sporting events can utilize smart infrastructure to handle millions of international travelers. The successful deployment of these systems will determine how Mexico manages the logistical demands of future global events.
