PSV - AZ can be experienced in Virtual Reality for the first time in the Netherlands

ESPN and KPN are joining forces to screen a live Eredivisie match in Virtual Reality (VR) for the very first time in the Netherlands. When the top-of-the-table clash between PSV and AZ kicks off at 18.45 on Saturday 6 April 2024, a select audience will be able to watch it live in VR.

It will be a unique and innovative way to experience the Eredivisie clash live without actually being there. So, from the comfort of your home but without compromising on the stadium experience. ESPN and KPN have worked with Go!Gaming Leidsche Rijn to make this possible on Saturday 6 April 2024. By linking a special, unique camera position in the Philips stadium to VR headsets, 100 fans will experience the match via GoGaming! Utrecht as if they were sitting close to the pitch in the Philips stadium.

Mark Versteegen, Head of Sponsorships at KPN: “In the years ahead, KPN will continue to invest significantly in the digitalization of the Netherlands and improve the Dutch digital infrastructure. Besides rolling out fiber and investing in new 5G applications, KPN is developing the best digital service possible for its customers by working with leading partners in the field of entertainment, gaming and security. Our main sponsorship of the Eredivisie and relationship with ESPN are enabling us to bring Dutch football closer to our customers as part of an innovative and digital approach.”

Matthijs van Elk, Digital Director at ESPN: “ESPN’s mission is to serve sports fans anytime and anywhere. Obviously, the stadium itself is the ultimate place to be, but ESPN is the best alternative to the live football experience for a number of reasons. It enables you to watch matches on the TV in your living room, online on your second screen and on your smartphone when you are out and about. By screening this special match in VR, we are the first in the Netherlands to take this technology to another level: offering you the real stadium experience from the comfort of your home. We can’t wait to hear what people think.”

KPN and Eredivisie are the perfect match

KPN and the Eredivisie have been a perfect match for years. From 1990 to 2002, KPN was the main sponsor and the league even carried KPN’s former name, the PTT Telecompetitie. In 2014, KPN again partnered with the highest Dutch football league and, since the 2017/2018 season, is once more the main sponsor.

KPN is intensively involved with Dutch football and supports the sport across the board, from the Eredivisie, the national team, and the successful Lionesses, to local amateur football clubs. With the sponsorship of the eDivisie and E-Oranje, KPN is also able to connect with Dutch gamers.