Arena Castelão Becomes More Modern with Imply® Facial Recognition

Ranked among the largest stadiums in the world, a host venue of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, and the biggest stadium in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil, Arena Castelão reaffirms its commitment to innovation and excellence. With a capacity exceeding 60,000 spectators and recognized as one of the most modern stadiums in the country, Castelão now features the advanced Imply® Facial Recognition Access Control.
This cutting-edge technology revolutionizes security and efficiency in stadium access. The Imply® Facial Recognition device uses sophisticated algorithms to map and validate hundreds of unique facial points, ensuring a 99.9% accuracy rate in less than a second. This time includes detecting the presence and granting entry, providing a seamless and rapid experience for attendees.
Beyond enhancing the fan experience, biometric facial recognition strengthens security by making access personal and non-transferable, reducing ticket scalping. The system will be integrated with the clubs, allowing fans to register their facial biometrics online when purchasing tickets. As a result, stadium entry no longer requires physical tickets or cards—their face becomes their credential.
Facial recognition is increasingly being adopted worldwide as a strategic solution to modernize and streamline access control. In addition to the direct benefits for users and venue operators, its implementation aligns with the General Sports Law (Law 14.597), enacted in July 2023, which mandates stadiums with a capacity of over 20,000 spectators to implement this technology.
Imply® ElevenTickets Plays a Key Role in Arena Castelão’s Modernization. As a technology partner of the stadium since 2012, Imply® ElevenTickets has been instrumental in advancing Arena Castelão’s access control systems and Full-Color LED Panels. The company continually enhances the fan experience. In 2023, when Castelão celebrated its 50th anniversary, the stadium’s LED panels were upgraded, further elevating the quality of the spectator experience. With two impressive 90m² LED panels featuring P20 resolution, the stadium delivers an immersive and impactful visual experience for all attendees.
How Does Imply® Facial Recognition Work?
Facial recognition devices use advanced cameras and algorithms to identify and authenticate individuals based on their unique biometric features. The technology analyzes specific facial points and compares them to a pre-registered database, allowing automatic access without physical tickets or cards.
Enhanced Security and Fraud Prevention
In stadiums, facial recognition has a significant impact on security. The system helps identify individuals banned from sporting events and prevents crimes such as ticket scalping and fraud. Additionally, integration with law enforcement databases enables quick responses to security threats, strengthening measures against violence in stadiums.
Speed and Improved Fan Experience
One of the main benefits of facial biometrics is optimizing the entry process, reducing lines, and enhancing the fan experience. Authentication occurs in seconds, eliminating the need for manual document and ticket checks. This prevents overcrowding and ensures a smooth, efficient entry process, especially for high-attendance matches.
Operational Efficiency and Cost Reduction
Imply® Facial Recognition improves not only security and convenience but also stadium management efficiency. Automating access control reduces the need for staff to manually verify tickets, minimizes financial losses from fraud, and enhances sector occupancy control. For clubs and operators, this results in a more streamlined operation and lower costs.
Imply®: A Technology Leader in Latin America’s Most Innovative Stadiums
The Imply® Facial Recognition System stands out as one of the most precise, secure, and advanced solutions on the market. Equipped with artificial intelligence and deep learning algorithms, it offers high-speed, highly accurate identification alongside robust security features. Its primary goal is to transform access into a more modern, fast, practical, and convenient experience. With facial recognition, waiting times in lines are significantly reduced, allowing entry with just a facial scan—no physical tickets or cards required. Facial registration can be completed remotely and online, eliminating the need for in-person visits to the stadium. The result is a seamless experience that combines agility and security for fans.
As the leading provider of ticketing, membership management, and access control technologies in Latin America for sporting events, with extensive expertise in large-scale events and premium attractions, Imply® ElevenTickets offers an all-in-one solution that integrates tools and services for managing events and attractions in a single platform.
Learn more at: https://imply.com/engb/access-systems/