The San Francisco 49ers have entered a multi-year strategic partnership with NetApp, an intelligent data infrastructure solution to leverage a silo-free data architecture to optimize business operations across the franchise, with a particular focus on reengineering the fan experience at Levi’s Stadium.
The 49ers forms significant technological upgrades are planned to enhance the venue, aiming for a seamless and interconnected fan experience. By utilizing NetApp’s advanced solutions, including the NetApp Keystone storage-as-a-service model, to improve various aspects of stadium operations such as ingress and egress efficiency, reductions in restroom and concession stand wait times, and enhancements to mobile application functionality.
“When Levi’s Stadium opened in 2014, it was one of the most technologically advanced stadiums in the country. While we have remained diligent in making improvements to the fan experience year over year, NetApp will empower us to make major changes that will bring the building into the forefront of technology-focused sports and entertainment venues,” said Costa Kladianos, 49ers EVP and Head of Technology.
“We are excited to welcome NetApp, a Bay Area brand and global leader in data infrastructure, as a founding-level corporate partner,” said Brent Schoeb, 49ers Chief Revenue & Marketing Officer. “We look forward to integrating NetApp’s best-in-class, innovative technology across the 49ers and Levi’s® Stadium organization to enhance the fan experience.”
In addition to powering the 49ers’ goal of enhancing Levi’s® Stadium, NetApp has become the presenting sponsor of the 49ers 2025 NFL Draft, and the Levi’s Stadium Owners Club, located on the East side of the building, will be renamed to recognize NetApp’s sponsorship.
Also Read: NetApp Teams with NVIDIA for Advanced Generative AI solution“By becoming an integral part of the 49ers’ operations, NetApp is demonstrating our deep commitment to innovation, leadership, and excellence in Silicon Valley,” said George Kurian, CEO of NetApp. “Intelligent data infrastructure is crucial to the sports fan experience and team performance. Our support of the 49ers’ ambitious goals for making its home stadium the benchmark for excellence in fan experience and team performance demonstrates our strong ties to our San Francisco Bay Area home and our unique capabilities to make data an asset in leading organizations achieving their transformation goals.”
NetApp will be the presenting sponsor for the 49ers’ strategy, data, and analytics conference, Horizon Summit, returning to Levi’s stadium in June 2025. Additional details about the sixth iteration of the event, including dates and confirmed speakers, will be announced in the coming months.
