Verizon secured a connectivity partnership contract with FIFA in 2024 to provide Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) and private 5G network services for the FIFA World Cup 2026, hosted across the US, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19. The agreement includes deploying private 5G networks in host stadiums to support critical applications such as referee body cameras and FIFA Fan Festival locations, where Verizon's 5G and fiber infrastructure will enable public-facing operations. Verizon will also leverage its 5G ultra-wideband network to support pop-up activations, retail locations, and logistics for fans, while collaborating with FIFA to provide 5G network slicing for unspecified use cases. To meet expected data demands exceeding 50 terabytes per match, Verizon bolstered its 5G network capacity by three to five times across host stadiums, installing thousands of antennas under seats and massive ball-shaped antennas for targeted 4G and 5G coverage. Additionally, Verizon deployed nearly 140 small cells and temporary cell sites in surrounding areas, and will utilize its Verizon Frontline network to support first responders during the event.