Cybersecurity and cloud company Acronis has entered into a technology partnership with Arsenal Football Club.
The partnership, which extends over three years, aims to protect the football club’s data and enhance its analysis capabilities. Both the club’s performance data and analysis of opposing teams will be safeguarded by Acronis. In addition to data protection, Acronis will secure applications and systems, including Arsenal’s Microsoft OneDrive and Office 365 accounts.
The scale of this collaboration is notable for its reach. Acronis will provide secure storage for every first-team and academy training session recorded at Arsenal’s Colney training ground, totalling 8 TB of data a year—the equivalent of 875 matches. Acronis has previously been involved in high-profile sports, including Formula One and Formula E.
John Zanni, President of Acronis, highlighted the importance of data at the highest levels of competition. ‘At the highest level of competition, data is a critical asset. The teams that understand its importance partner with Acronis to optimise their data management,’ he stated. Zanni further emphasised Arsenal’s leadership in data use, indicating that the partnership reflects Acronis’ capability to perform in high-pressure, digital environments.
In a statement, Vinai Venkatesham, Arsenal’s Chief Commercial Officer, noted Acronis’ expertise in data backup services and expressed confidence that their advanced technology will ensure the club’s data safety and security. He also mentioned their anticipation in supporting Acronis’ business growth plans.
Acronis’ solutions come with integrated anti-ransomware defence, ensuring data protection from cyber-attacks. Using artificial intelligence, Acronis Active Protection monitors systems in real time for suspicious activities, enabling automatic detection and cessation of attacks. Its self-defence capabilities also prevent cybercriminals from disrupting the backup software or altering the contents of protected files.
The partnership grants Acronis significant visibility, including LED signage at every home Premier League, Emirates FA Cup, and Carabao Cup match. Furthermore, Acronis will have a presence on Arsenal interview backdrops and access to first-team players and legends, supporting their endeavour to increase global brand awareness. The collaboration is set to be beneficial for both Arsenal and Acronis, enabling better data management and enhanced visibility.
The Acronis-Arsenal partnership is set to enhance the club’s data security while providing Acronis with significant exposure. This alliance highlights the crucial role data management plays in modern sports.