Morocco Makes History: SNRT to Deploy Spidercam in All 9 AFCON Stadiums

Marrakech – In an unprecedented move, Morocco’s National Broadcasting and Television Company (SNRT) has launched a tender for deploying Spidercam technology across all nine stadiums hosting the upcoming African Cup of Nations (AFCON 2025).

This marks the first time in AFCON history that this advanced aerial camera system will be used throughout an entire tournament.

The Spidercam system, which provides spectacular aerial views of the playing field, will enhance the viewing experience for millions of spectators across Africa and beyond.

SNRT has previous experience with this technology, having successfully used it during the 2022 Club World Cup and the 2023 Morocco-Brazil friendly match.

According to the tender launched by SNRT on July 30, the total cost for installing these systems in all nine stadiums is estimated at MAD 9,579,552 ($957,955). The deadline for bid submissions is set for September 10.

The distribution of costs across the nine venues varies based on stadium specifications. In Rabat, which hosts four stadiums, the allocations are: Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium at MAD 1,430,832 ($143,083), Olympic Stadium at MAD 844,332 ($84,433), Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium at MAD 827,964 ($82,796), and El Barid Stadium at MAD 658,176 ($65,818).

For other host cities, the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca is allocated MAD 1,371,600 ($137,160), while the Grand Stadium of Marrakech and Adrar Stadium in Agadir will each receive MAD 1,214,820 ($121,482). The Fez Stadium is budgeted at MAD 850,140 ($85,014), and Ibn Batouta Stadium in Tangier at MAD 1,166,868 ($116,687).

SNRT recently conducted a successful full-scale test of the Spidercam during the Morocco-Benin friendly match on June 9 at the Fez Stadium. This test validated the technical aspects of the system and provided a preview of the television experience SNRT plans to offer during AFCON 2025.

This implementation represents another milestone, as it’s the first time the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has entrusted the host country’s national television with producing matches for this competition.

The dynamic images captured during the test match demonstrated the immersive potential of this technology, particularly in slow-motion replays and close-up shots of game action.

The Spidercam system works by suspending a camera from cables with four high-positioned anchor points that cover the entire field. It carries an HD or 4K broadcast camera with motorized zoom and a gyrostabilized head, providing smooth and immersive images.

The system is remotely controlled by two operators – one for movement and another for framing – and transmits video in real-time via fiber optic cable.

The setup also includes safety systems such as anti-collision sensors, emergency brakes, and redundant motors and power supplies.

Sources from within SNRT have told media outlets that clear instructions have been issued to ensure all stadiums are equipped at least four days before the tournament begins.

This timeframe will allow technical and engineering teams sufficient time to test systems and coordinate broadcasting with CAF and international production partners.

Morocco, hosting the competition for the second time after the 1988 edition, aims to impress not only with the quality of its sports infrastructure but also with innovations in broadcasting.

The implementation of this technology is being carried out in collaboration with specialized international technical providers who possess the necessary equipment and expertise for deploying and operating these aerial cameras during live broadcasts.

This deployment is part of a broader strategy to showcase Morocco’s expertise in organizing large-scale sporting events, as the North African country also prepares to co-host the 2030 World Cup with Spain and Portugal.

The AFCON 2025 tournament is scheduled to run from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.