Government-backed project successfully showcases O-RAN technology at the Allianz Stadium

• The Virgin Media O2-led 5G MoDE project has successfully deployed an O-RAN solution at the Allianz Stadium, significantly improving the mobile experience for thousands of fans at the Six Nations.
• This successful trial, delivered by Virgin Media O2 and Mavenir, demonstrates the potential of open networks to manage high-density mobile traffic using O-RAN technology.
• The project, backed by the UK Government’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), marks a significant milestone in the deployment of next-generation mobile networks at large-scale events

The government-backed 5G MoDE (Mobile O-RAN for Highly Dense Environments) project has successfully delivered a temporary O-RAN Cell on Wheels at the O2 Blueroom, located outside Allianz Stadium (Twickenham).

The trial, which has been delivered by Virgin Media O2 and Mavenir, took place during the England vs Italy Six Nations fixture and showcased how open network solutions can help manage connectivity and ensure robust and reliable mobile networks during major events.

As part of the deployment, the temporary O-RAN Cell On Wheels was deployed in the fanzone before and after England’s victory. With tens of thousands of fans accessing the stadium, the successful trial highlighted that O-RAN can enhance users’ mobile experience in busy areas. The solution reduced network congestion and demonstrated how open interface technology can complement existing infrastructure in high-demand environments.

The findings and insights gained from this project will serve as a valuable foundation for future radio access network deployments, supporting ongoing efforts to diversify the UK’s telecoms ecosystem and drive innovation in network infrastructure.

Professor David Owens, Head of Technical Trials at Virgin Media O2, said: “Our successful deployment at the Allianz Stadium marks a significant step forward in transforming mobile connectivity. We are proving that flexible, intelligent networks can deliver impressive performance even under the heavy load conditions of major events.”

BG Kumar, President, Access Networks, Platforms, and Digital Enablement at Mavenir, said: “Mavenir is excited to be part of the 5G MoDE application of Open RAN at the Allianz Stadium in Twickenham – a confirmation of the potential that open networks bring to manage high-density mobile traffic. We are thankful to be part of Virgin Media O2’s relentless approach to innovation and grateful to the DSIT for their support for driving Open RAN innovation across the United Kingdom.”