A new report from GSMA Intelligence suggests that mobile network operators could be the real game-changers of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The report, titled Insight Spotlight, examines the significant opportunities for operators to deliver resilient, high-capacity connectivity while enabling new enterprise services and enhanced consumer experiences.
Network Densification and 5G Investments
With massive traffic spikes expected in stadiums, fan zones, airports, and host cities, operators are investing heavily in 5G network densification. This includes deploying small cells, distributed antenna systems, mmWave technology, Wi-Fi access points, temporary cell sites, backhaul upgrades, and additional spectrum to ensure seamless connectivity during the event.
Enterprise Opportunities Beyond Basic Coverage
The report argues that the opportunity goes far beyond basic coverage. For enterprise customers and event organizers, technologies such as private 5G, edge computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT) can support critical event operations. These include broadcasting, video assistant referee systems, public safety, crowd management, digital signage, connected cameras, drones, and ambulances. As major US operators continue rolling out 5G Standalone, advanced capabilities like network slicing are expected to underpin many differentiated connectivity services.
Consumer Monetization and New Services
For consumers, the World Cup opens up new monetization avenues. Operators can offer travel eSIM packages for international visitors, premium experience-based tariffs with guaranteed speeds, priority access, and low latency. Network-native services such as live translation, which do not require app downloads or specialized hardware, are also gaining traction. GSMA Intelligence notes growing consumer interest in these connectivity-led propositions.
Complementary Revenue Streams
The report also highlights complementary revenue opportunities for operators that may not hold content rights directly. These range from partnerships with official broadcasters to enabling immersive and adjacent content such as extended reality (XR) and multi-angle viewing. Operators can also support fan journey services with location-aware information and integrated travel or venue access.
Showcasing Advanced Networks
Overall, the paper concludes that major sporting events like the 2026 World Cup are becoming important showcases for operators to demonstrate the value of advanced networks, develop new service models, and strengthen their role in the wider digital experience economy.
GSMA Intelligence has shared further insights via its recent LinkedIn post and podcast available on Spotify, YouTube, Apple, and Amazon Music.
