This upcoming season, the NFL will be rolling out new facial recognition technology that will be used for individuals with working credentials and other stadium staff, according to NFL officials.
The tech will be introduced at all 32 of its stadiums, the rollout coming after a successful trial at various venues last year, including the Cleveland Browns Stadium. The main goal of this technology is to make it easier for credentialed media, officials, staff, and guests to access restricted areas like the field, press box, and locker rooms. By using facial authentication, the NFL also hopes to stop people from using fake credentials to get into these areas.
The move comes at a time when people are going viral on social media for getting past traditional security. For example, last month, a Paris-based influencer named Saint Léon made videos of himself sneaking into big events like Formula 1 races, Fashion Week shows, and even backstage at Rolling Loud to see Travis Scott perform. In one TikTok video, he wore an orange security vest and used gaffer tape to blend in with festival workers, even hiding when he was asked to do some actual work.
“There is a new program for ‘24 that doesn’t apply to or affect fans,” wrote NFL league official Brian McCarthy on X (formerly Twitter). “This is only for individuals w/ working credentials – team/gameday personnel, vendors & media. These ppl have already submitted their photo as part of the process & this system will make it more efficient and secure.”
