Sport Field and Stadium Lighting

Sport field and stadium lighting significantly impacts the experience of players and spectators. Proper lighting enhances visibility, contributes to safety, and supports high-quality broadcasting.​

1. Visibility and Performance

Adequate lighting allows players to track the ball, judge distances, and make quick decisions. It also reduces eye strain and fatigue, aiding performance. Spectators benefit from clear views of the action. 

2. Atmosphere Creation

Dynamic lighting techniques, such as colour changes and synchronised light shows, can create engaging environments. These effects build anticipation and engagement among the crowd. ​

3. Broadcasting Quality

High-quality lighting ensures television cameras capture clear images. Proper colour rendering and minimal glare enhance the viewing experience for audiences at home. 

Image: Genesis One Lighting Vantage 28 (600W 800W 1000W 1200W, High lumen output from 84000lm to 192000lm)

5. Energy Efficiency

Modern LED lighting systems offer substantial energy savings and longer lifespans compared to traditional technologies. They provide improved control over lighting levels and colour temperature, reducing environmental impact and operational costs. ​

Key Considerations in Lighting Design

• Lighting Levels: Set appropriate levels for different areas, complying with sports association standards.​

• Uniformity: Achieve consistent lighting distribution to minimise shadows and enhance visibility.​

• Glare Control: Position luminaires and use shielding to reduce glare for players and spectators.​

• Lighting Controls: Implement systems like dimming or zoning to adapt lighting for various events and conserve energy. 
  

Lux Level Recommendations: Proper lighting is essential for sports facilities to ensure safety, optimal performance, and high-quality broadcasting. The required illuminance levels, measured in lux, vary based on the sport, level of competition, and specific activities. Below is a table summarizing the recommended lux levels for various sports and facility types:​

Sport	Activity Level	Playing Area	Average Illuminance (lux)	Uniformity (U1)	Uniformity (U2)	Maximum Glare Rating	Minimum CRI
Rugby	Training	Field	50	0.3
	Club Competition	Field	100	0.5	0.3	50
	Semi-Professional	Field	200	0.6	0.4	50
	Professional Competition	Field	500	0.7	0.5	50
Soccer (Football)	Training	Field	50	0.3
	Club Competition	Field	100	0.5	0.3	50
	Semi-Professional	Field	200	0.6	0.4	50
	Professional Competition	Field	500	0.7	0.5	50
Cricket	Non-Body Contact Training	Square	100	0.5	0.3
		Outfield	100	0.5	0.3
	Match Practice	Square	200	0.6	0.4
		Outfield	200	0.6	0.4
	Level III (Local Club)	Square	300	0.5	0.5
		Outfield	200	0.5	0.5
	Level II (Regional)	Square	500	0.7	0.5
		Outfield	300	0.7	0.5
	Level I (International)	Square	700	0.7	0.5
		Outfield	500	0.7	0.5
Hockey (Astroturf)	Training	Field	200	0.5	0.3
	Club Competition	Field	250	0.7	0.5
	Professional Competition	Field	500	0.7	0.5
Indoor Soccer	Training	Court	100	0.5	0.3
	Club Competition	Court	200	0.66			65
Indoor Cricket	Training	Court	100	0.5	0.3
	Club Competition	Court	200	0.66			65

Notes:

• Uniformity (U1): Ratio of minimum to average illuminance.​

• Uniformity (U2): Ratio of minimum to maximum illuminance.​

• Maximum Glare Rating: Higher values indicate more glare; lower values are preferable.​

• Minimum CRI (Colour Rendering Index): Higher CRI values indicate better colour rendering, important for accurate colour perception.​
  

These recommendations are based on standards such as AS2560.2:2021 and EN 12193, which provide guidelines for sports lighting to ensure safety, performance, and broadcast quality.

For professional competitions, especially those requiring television broadcasting, higher illuminance levels and uniformity are essential to meet broadcasting standards and provide clear visuals for viewers.​

When planning lighting for sports facilities, it's crucial to consult the specific standards and guidelines relevant to your region and sport to ensure compliance and optimal conditions.​

Effective sport field and stadium lighting enhances performance, safety, and the overall experience. Modern technologies allow venues to achieve high-quality lighting while prioritising sustainability.​

For more information, please contact our sales office on +27(0)11 4620251, send a mail to sales@genesisone.co.za or visit our website www.genesisonelighting.com.