Lights out and away we go: O2 switches on enhanced 5G connectivity at Silverstone as fans gear up for the British Grand Prix

• O2 and Boldyn Networks have significantly enhanced 5G connectivity at Silverstone, one of the world’s most iconic motorsport venues, ahead of the race weekend 

• O2 customers will be the first to benefit from the new permanent high-capacity 5G network, which will provide faster speeds and more reliable connectivity around the track 

• The upgrade is part of O2’s Mobile Transformation Plan, which will see the operator invest around £700m to improve its mobile network this year 

O2 has become the first operator to go live on Silverstone’s new high-capacity mobile network, putting its customers in pole position ahead of one of the biggest sporting events of the year. 

Delivered in partnership with Boldyn Networks, the new distributed antenna system (DAS) spans across 570 acres, including the 3.66 mile Grand Prix circuit.  

The deployment marks a significant upgrade for the circuit. Historically, operators have relied on temporary infrastructure to support major events at the track. Boldyn’s network is the first permanent mobile solution at Silverstone, helping O2 customers share photos and videos, follow live race updates, access event information and stay connected throughout the venue. 

As demand for mobile data at major sporting events continues to grow, the network will help deliver a faster and more reliable experience for fans all year round. 

Professor Robert Joyce, Director of Mobile Access Engineering at O2, said: “Whether it’s sharing a video of a dramatic overtake, finding your way around the venue or keeping in touch with friends and family, connectivity has become a huge part of the fan experience for racing fans. Going live on Silverstone’s new dedicated network infrastructure means O2 customers can enjoy a faster and more reliable connection at one of the biggest events in the British sporting calendar.” 

Paul Osborne, Chief Commercial Officer at Boldyn Networks UK, said: “This weekend’s British Grand Prix will draw over half a million fans, driving record demand for connectivity. O2 is moving first, giving its customers priority access to the enhanced experience powered by our state-of-the-art Silverstone network. At Boldyn, we’re proud to be supporting Silverstone and advancing connectivity at the UK’s most iconic venues.” 

The launch at Silverstone forms part of Virgin Media O2’s wider investment in connectivity at some of the UK’s busiest venues, transport hubs and destinations where demand is highest. Through its £700m Mobile Transformation Plan, the operator is continuing to improve coverage, capacity and reliability across the country.