Riedel Communications has deployed its Easy5G 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, as the company has claimed in a statement.

Initiated by the DFL (Deutsche Fußball Liga), this project represents the first-ever integration of Easy5G and RefCam in a packed stadium environment. The Easy5G network was operational in under one hour, and, operating over its 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 RUN headset, the RefCam had the objective of offering 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 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 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”, explained 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. This activation was made possible under IFAB’s ongoing approval program for body-worn camera testing, with FIFA and DFL 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”, added 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”.