May 7 – Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) has partnered with computer vision firm Wicket to launch facial authentication technology at BMO Stadium, allowing supporters to enter the ground and make purchases using only their face.
The new system, dubbed BMO Stadium Express, has been rolled out at the 22,000-seat venue and is designed to dramatically cut queueing times on matchdays. Fans who choose to opt in can enrol in advance and use facial recognition at designated entry points and concessions, eliminating the need for tickets, phones, or wallets.
LAFC described the partnership as part of its wider strategy to harness technology in service of a more modern and frictionless matchday experience.
Wicket, headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, provides biometric systems for several high-profile US sports venues. Its facial authentication suite includes tools for ticketing, access control, credentialing, and payments. All use is opt-in, with data encryption and a stated zero-retention policy for facial images.
For LAFC, the technology is a response to growing industry demand for smarter, more efficient stadium operations—particularly in urban environments where crowd flow and fan engagement are increasingly under the spotlight. Reducing friction at entry and point-of-sale locations not only improves fan satisfaction but also increases opportunities for matchday revenue generation.
While the technology is currently focused on fan-facing applications, the club may eventually expand the system to cover staff, media accreditation, or loyalty programme integrations.
LAFC is among the first clubs in Major League Soccer to implement facial recognition for both entry and payments on this scale.
Christian Lau, LAFC Chief Technology Officer, said “At LAFC we are committed to redefining the live sports experience through advanced technology. By integrating Wicket’s best-in-class facial authentication technology we’re making it easier than ever for the fans to get to their seats and enjoy the game.”
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1746725379labto1746725379ofdlr1746725379owedi1746725379sni@g1746725379niwe.1746725379yrrah1746725379