LaLiga was preparing expanded television coverage for El Clásico between Barcelona and Real Madrid at Camp Nou on Sunday 25 October. Officials expected a global audience of more than 650 million viewers.
Scale of the production
According to Sport, up to 38 cameras were set to capture the action, with a possible 39th on standby. Sport reported that the production plan spread cameras across every corner of the stadium to catch each detail.
According to Sport, the usual number of cameras deployed at Barcelona and Real Madrid matches is 25 or 26. Sport said the setup included goal cameras, the goal line, the substitutes' benches and the tunnels, plus high-speed cameras for replays from multiple angles.
Technology in use
The connected ball was set to make its Clasico debut, feeding additional data during play. Ref Cam was set to transmit scenes from the referee's perspective.
International distribution
A total of 28 international broadcasters were expected in Barcelona to produce tailored content. The television signal was to be distributed across global platforms including Disney, DAZN and Canal+.
Build-up coverage
Build-up coverage was to start 90 minutes before the opening whistle. Cameras were to track the two teams arriving at the stadium, capture footage from the dressing rooms and cover the warm-ups.
Sport reported that LaLiga's figures show the Clasico's reach jumped by 51% over the past two seasons, compared with the four seasons before them.