The 2025 off-season saw VIDI complete a major upgrade of the broadcast infrastructure across all 36 stadiums in Germany’s first and second Bundesliga.
The project included a full modernisation of network connectivity and media adaptation systems, updating the league’s production environment.
VIDI delivered a unified, IP-based network designed to support an increased volume of live baseband/IP services across all venues in the league.
The installed technology includes the Media Links Xscend platform, selected for its ability to integrate closely with VIDI’s network management system which enables centralised control and visibility across all locations.
Additional locations for signal handover were integrated into the network, where signal exchange is also handled using SMPTE 2110 at the central production site.
All stadiums are connected with full redundancy, enabling delivery of video, audio, and data during live matches. The new infrastructure also supports expanded remote production workflows, whereby two matches per matchday in the second Bundesliga are now produced remotely.
Dolby Atmos mixes are produced at the remote audio control room in Darmstadt, Germany, covering additional matches per matchday.
To manage the large number and variety of signals, VIDI enhanced its network management system with an updated booking interface and automated scheduling for all connections and services.
VIDI also expanded its network operations centre in Darmstadt to provide stronger centralised support, as well as on-site coordination at the stadium.
Karsten Winterberg, CTO, VIDI, commented: “We are proud to once again demonstrate VIDI’s capabilities through this challenging project. The Bundesliga is undoubtedly one of the most demanding sports leagues in the world. Proving that we can successfully execute a production remotely is something truly special.
“We are also particularly pleased that our remote audio production at the RACR in Darmstadt has become so well established and has been so well received by the client. I would also like to extend a special thank you to our technology partner Media Links, as the implementation within such a tight timeframe would not have been possible without their active support and on-time delivery.”