Facial recognition at El Campín: FacePass tested for stadium entry

Estadio Nemesio Camacho El Campín has introduced facial recognition for stadium entry through FacePass. The trial, held during the Liga BetPlay Matchday 12 match between Independiente Santa Fe and Deportivo Cali, marks a step forward in the modernisation and security of sporting events in Bogotá.

The pilot scheme, developed by ticketing company TuBoleta, brings the technology to the Oriental stand. FacePass is a facial biometrics solution designed to transform and speed up the supporter experience at entry points. The measure applies to 1,000 adult season-ticket holders located in that stand.

Before the match, users must link their biometric data to TuBoleta’s platform. At control points, a facial scan then validates entry, removing the need for a physical ticket, a code on a mobile device or a physical identity document.

The initiative is a response to violent incidents that occurred one month earlier during the match between Independiente Santa Fe and América de Cali. A pitch invasion stemming from a dispute over a flag had prevented the rapid identification of those responsible. Until now, entry had relied solely on a digital ticket downloaded through the ticketing company’s app, a system that made it harder to identify people carrying out acts of vandalism.

According to information provided by TuBoleta and Santa Fe’s management, this initial testing period is expected to assess the technology in real high-attendance conditions. It is also intended to measure and optimise access times at the Oriental stand gates, analyse logistics and the adaptation of control staff, and gather supporters’ views on the new digital experience.

If the trial is successful, the system could gradually be extended to the other stands at the sporting venue.