Cisco Becomes an Official Technology Partner of the National Football League

Rhea-AI Summary

The NFL and Cisco (NASDAQ: CSCO) announced a multi-year partnership, designating Cisco as an Official Technology Partner. This collaboration aims to develop a Connected League platform, enhancing connectivity across the NFL with improved speed, intelligence, and security. Cisco's technology is already integrated into NFL stadiums, underpinning replay control and gameday operations. The partnership also includes Cisco's commitment to the NFL's Inspire Change initiative, promoting technology education and opportunities in underserved communities.

Positive

• Cisco becomes an Official Technology Partner of the NFL, enhancing brand visibility.
• Development of the Connected League platform aims to unify NFL operations with improved technology.
• Cisco technology already integral to NFL operations, increasing trust and familiarity with their systems.
• Partnership supports NFL's Inspire Change initiative, potentially boosting corporate social responsibility image.

Negative

• None.

SAN JOSE, Calif., April 13, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Football League (NFL) and Cisco (NASDAQ: CSCO), a leader in enterprise networking and security, today announced a new multi-year partnership naming Cisco an Official Technology Partner of the NFL. Central to this partnership, Cisco will use its industry-leading expertise to jointly develop a Connected League platform with the NFL, unifying the league on a singular foundation of connectivity with greater speed, intelligence, and security.

"We are excited to have Cisco as an official partner of the NFL. We have relied on Cisco for many years now and it is a natural fit that they now have become our partner," said Michelle McKenna, NFL Chief Information Officer. "In an increasingly digital world, speed, reliability and security are paramount to our success and we welcome the leadership Cisco will bring to the NFL for these key aspects and more."

"The NFL shares our view that a connected world offers incredible opportunity, and we are excited to become an Official Technology Partner of the league," said Chuck Robbins, Chairman and CEO at Cisco. "When Cisco started its journey in sports and entertainment years ago, we knew the right technology would reshape the fan experience, and with this partnership, we are continuing our progress toward creating a more dynamic future."

In 2008, Cisco introduced the idea of a single converged network supporting the future of connectivity for a venue. Fast forward to today and Cisco's view remains the same regarding a single unified, intent-based networking architecture, but instead of being building-centric, it is focused on developing a league-wide infrastructure to support gameday operations such as security and digital signage solutions.

Currently, every NFL stadium's replay control room is built on Cisco technology and connected back to the Art McNally Gameday Central in New York City via a Cisco network. In addition, nearly all of the league's Official Partners and two-thirds of NFL stadiums rely on Cisco technology, including SoFi Stadium and State Farm Stadium, sites of the next two Super Bowls.

"We have deep experience in this field creating innovative solutions that have enabled the sports industry to deliver superior fan experiences, streamline business operations, and drive incremental revenue," said Brian Eaton, Director of Global Sponsorship, Cisco. "We look forward to working with the NFL to implement a platform that will bring significant value to the entire league ecosystem."

In addition, Cisco and the NFL believe that technology will help build an inclusive future and bridge the digital divide. Cisco will contribute to the NFL's Inspire Change initiative by collaborating with the league to deliver technology education and career advancement opportunities to people in underserved communities. Cisco's belief is that connecting everyone not only creates more equality, but also meaningful and positive impact.

About Cisco 
Cisco (NASDAQ: CSCO) is the worldwide leader in technology that powers the Internet. Cisco inspires new possibilities by reimagining your applications, securing your enterprise, transforming your infrastructure, and empowering your teams for a global and inclusive future. Discover more on The Network and follow us on Twitter.

Cisco and the Cisco logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Cisco and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and other countries. A listing of Cisco's trademarks can be found at www.cisco.com/go/trademarks. Third-party trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners. The use of the word partner does not imply a partnership relationship between Cisco and any other company.

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SOURCE Cisco Systems, Inc.

FAQ

What is the significance of Cisco's partnership with the NFL?

Cisco's partnership provides enhanced technology solutions, aiming to improve connectivity and operational efficiency across the NFL.

What technology will Cisco implement for the NFL?

Cisco will develop a Connected League platform to unify NFL operations with enhanced speed, intelligence, and security.

When was the partnership between Cisco and the NFL announced?

The partnership was announced on April 13, 2021.

How does the partnership impact Cisco's business?

The partnership enhances Cisco's market presence and credibility in the sports sector, potentially driving future revenue.

What initiatives will Cisco support in the NFL?

Cisco will support the NFL's Inspire Change initiative, focusing on technology education and career advancement in underserved communities.