Tech Beetle briefing CA AI

Rogers customers used hundreds of terabytes of data during Word Cup games

Essential brief

Rogers reported that its network handled 510 terabytes of data during the 2026 FIFA World Cup across stadiums and fan zones in Toronto and Vancouver. This data usage, equivalent to sharing 102 mill

Key topics

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Key facts

Rogers customers used 510TB of data across 13 World Cup matches in Toronto and Vancouver.

Data usage per match averaged over 39TB, far exceeding previous major events like the 2024 Taylor Swift concerts.

Rogers invested $27 million to enhance network infrastructure, including 5G+ deployment and additional cell sites.

Upgrades targeted stadiums, fan zones, transportation hubs, and downtown areas to manage high traffic demand.

Highlights

510TB of data consumed by Rogers customers during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Matches held in two cities: six in Toronto and seven in Vancouver.

Network improvements included adding infrastructure equivalent to 16 cell towers downtown.

Additional deployments included Cells on Wheels and Cells on Light Facilities in Toronto.

Investment aimed to support connectivity at stadiums, fan zones, hotels, airports, and transit stations.

Why it matters

The significant data usage during the 2026 FIFA World Cup highlights the growing demand for robust mobile networks at large-scale events. Rogers’ substantial investment in network infrastructure illustrates the telecom industry's need to upgrade and expand capacity to support high user density and data consumption. These developments are critical as mobile connectivity becomes increasingly essential for event attendees and the general public.

Rogers has released data on its network performance during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, highlighting substantial data consumption by attendees. Across 13 matches held in Toronto and Vancouver, users consumed a total of 510 terabytes of data at stadiums and surrounding events such as watch parties and fan zones. This averages to over 39 terabytes per match, far surpassing data usage at other major events like the 2024 Taylor Swift Eras Tour concerts, which used 11TB and 7.4TB in Vancouver and Toronto respectively.

To support this demand, Rogers invested $27 million in network upgrades in both host cities. Enhancements included boosting the in-stadium wireless system—equivalent to adding 16 cell towers downtown—deploying additional 5G+ spectrum, and installing infrastructure at key locations such as fan zones, hotels, Pearson International Airport, Union Station, and select TTC subway stations. The company also deployed Cells on Wheels and Cells on Light Facilities to manage high traffic in downtown Toronto.

These improvements aimed to ensure reliable connectivity for fans during the tournament. Rogers’ efforts mirror similar investments made by Bell for the event. The data release comes amid ongoing controversies involving Rogers, including disputes with the CRTC over junk fees and recent layoffs of customer service staff.

The reported data usage underscores the increasing demand for mobile connectivity during large-scale events and the importance of network infrastructure investments. Rogers’ upgrades demonstrate the telecom industry's response to such demands, highlighting the role of advanced technologies like 5G+ in managing peak network loads.

This information provides insight into how telecom providers prepare for and manage connectivity during major international events, reflecting broader trends in data consumption and network capacity requirements.

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