German broadcast service provider VIDI has completed a major overhaul of connectivity and media adaptation systems across all 36 stadiums of the Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga, deploying MediaLinks’ Xscend platform into live operation for the 2025 season.
The upgrades, carried out during the leagues’ winter break, included extensive modernisation of infrastructure and the expansion of network capacity to meet the growing technical demands of centralised production workflows. According to VIDI, every stadium has now been equipped with fully redundant connections capable of supporting a high volume of signals and services.
A key component of the new setup is the introduction of MediaLinks’ Xscend series, chosen for its high density, modular design and deep integration capabilities with VIDI’s own Network Management System (VIDI NMS). The system’s robustness and compatibility with existing broadcast infrastructure were also decisive factors.
To accommodate evolving production requirements, VIDI and sports production company Sportcast added new handover points for signal contribution and distribution. At the central production hub, signal delivery now also supports SMPTE ST 2110, reflecting the industry-wide shift towards IP-based workflows.
The enhanced connectivity enables two 2. Bundesliga matches per matchday to be produced remotely. VIDI’s Remote Audio Control Room (RACR) in Darmstadt, already used for Dolby Atmos mixing of the weekly top match, will now handle an additional fixture each matchday.
VIDI has also expanded the booking interface within its NMS, introducing automated scheduling for all connections and services. The company’s Network Operations Centre in Darmstadt has been upgraded to provide improved support both centrally and on-site.
All work was completed within the tight off-season window, and the new systems have been in full operation since the opening matchday of the current season.
“VIDI has in this project once more demonstrated its high technical competence and reliability,” said Seamus Neary, Director Matchday Operations at Sportcast. “The collaboration is characterised by a strong willingness to innovate and professionalism – qualities we have valued repeatedly in recent years.”
VIDI CTO Karsten Winterberg added: “It makes us proud to be able to demonstrate VIDI’s performance with such a demanding project. The Bundesliga is undoubtedly one of the most challenging sports leagues worldwide. Proving that a production can also be implemented remotely with us is something very special.”
VIDI, headquartered in Darmstadt, has more than 35 years of experience in the distribution of broadcast signals over global telecommunications networks. Its portfolio spans live event transmission, permanent network solutions, network management software and hardware distribution.
