Riedel Premieres Easy5G And RefCam Live Systems

Riedel Communications successfully deployed its Easy5GTM Private 5G network and RefCam® Live referee camera system during the Bundesliga showdown between FC Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund in April – a match known as Der Klassiker and one of the most iconic events in German soccer.

Initiated by the DFL (Deutsche Fußball Liga), this project represents the first-ever integration of Easy5G and RefCam in a packed stadium environment. With 75,000 fans in a sold-out Allianz Arena in Munich, the rollout took place on one of the sport’s most high-profile stages. The Easy5G network was operational in under one hour, showcasing how quickly high-performance broadcast infrastructure can be deployed without pre-existing stadium tech. Operating over the Easy5G infrastructure, the head-worn RefCam Live camera system delivered live 1080p50 point-of-view video from the referee’s perspective.

Mounted at eye level to Riedel's ultra-light RUN headset, the RefCam offered a stabilized, immersive view directly from the referee's line of sight. A Bolero S beltpack powered referee comms, while the RefCam Live beltpack streamed high-quality video to the broadcast compound – all integrated discreetly under the official’s jersey to avoid disruption.

"The DFL approached us with a clear vision to redefine live coverage with cutting-edge connectivity and immersive capture," said Jacqueline Voss, Executive Director Strategy and Innovation of Riedel's Managed Technology division. "They were determined to test our solutions on the biggest stage possible, and we delivered. With just one Easy5G base station, we achieved full coverage of the pitch and tunnel – the system performed flawlessly."

Riedel's Managed Technology division handled the full deployment, including system setup, frequency management, remote access capabilities via a 5G core management port, and professional on-site interaction with match officials. In areas outside of 5G coverage – such as the referee’s locker room – Riedel enabled Wi-Fi-based video preview, streamlining pre-match setup without disrupting match-day operations.

"DFB Schiri GmbH is always interested in making the referees' perspective clearer to the public in order to generate more understanding for their work," said Alex Feuerherdt, Head of Communications and Media Relations, DFB Schiri GmbH. "This can also be achieved through the use of the RefCam. It shows how the referee perceives the game and interacts with the players. This is very valuable for us, also for internal training purposes."

The RefCam content was featured as part of the Bundesliga Special Show 'Der Klassiker Unseen – Ref's-Eye View' and across DFL's social media platforms, highlighting the league’s role as an innovation catalyst in global soccer and a driving force in shaping the future of fan engagement. This activation was made possible under IFAB’s ongoing approval program for body-worn camera testing, with FIFA and DFL playing key roles in supporting technological experimentation.

"At the DFL, we are constantly looking to enhance the fan experience within our media products and lead the way in innovation," said Dominik Scholler, VP Product Management and Innovation, DFL. "This deployment marks a significant step in exploring how next-generation technologies like 5G and body-worn cameras can bring viewers closer to the game than ever before. Partnering with Riedel allowed us to turn that ambition into reality – quickly, seamlessly, and effectively."

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