The San Francisco 49ers have announced a new multi-year partnership with NetApp, a leading data infrastructure company, in a move designed to modernise Levi’s Stadium and improve the fan experience. The agreement sees NetApp become the Official Intelligent Data Infrastructure Partner of the NFL team, with its technology set to play a key role in the stadium’s digital transformation.
As a founding level partner—the highest tier of corporate sponsorship with the 49ers—NetApp will integrate its intelligent data solutions into the club’s operations. The collaboration aims to streamline stadium entry and exit, reduce waiting times for facilities such as bathrooms and concessions, and enhance mobile app functionality for matchday visitors.
Tech Upgrades for a Smarter Fan Experience
Levi’s Stadium, which opened in 2014, was considered one of the most technologically advanced sports venues of its time. However, as the stadium enters its second decade, the 49ers plan to implement major upgrades to keep pace with modern digital expectations. NetApp’s solutions, including its Keystone storage-as-a-service platform, will underpin these improvements, supporting both the fan experience and future innovations within the organisation.
Costa Kladianos, the 49ers’ Executive Vice President and Head of Technology, said the deal marked a significant step forward: “When Levi’s Stadium opened, it was one of the most technologically advanced stadiums in the country. While we have continued to refine the fan experience each year, NetApp will enable us to introduce transformative changes that will establish the stadium as a leader in sports and entertainment technology.”
Brent Schoeb, Chief Revenue and Marketing Officer for the 49ers, welcomed the partnership: “We are excited to bring NetApp on board as a founding level corporate partner. Their cutting-edge technology will enhance the experience for fans and drive innovation across Levi’s Stadium.”
Sponsorships and Strategic Collaborations
Beyond the stadium’s technological improvements, the partnership will see NetApp take on a prominent sponsorship role within the 49ers’ operations. The company will be the presenting sponsor for the team’s 2025 NFL Draft and will lend its name to the Owners Club on the east side of Levi’s Stadium.
Additionally, NetApp will be the presenting sponsor of the 49ers’ Horizon Summit, a strategy, data, and analytics conference set to return to Levi’s Stadium in June 2025. Further details on the event, including its dates and keynote speakers, will be revealed in the coming months.
George Kurian, CEO of NetApp, highlighted the significance of the partnership: “By becoming an integral part of the 49ers’ operations, NetApp is demonstrating our deep commitment to innovation, leadership, and excellence in Silicon Valley. Intelligent data infrastructure is crucial to both the fan experience and team performance. Our collaboration will ensure Levi’s Stadium remains a benchmark for excellence while reinforcing our strong ties to the San Francisco Bay Area.”
For more information on the 49ers, visit 49ers.com or LevisStadium.com.