Chelsea FC signed a partnership agreement with Ericsson to ensure fast internet access to all fans at Stamford Bridge. This suggests fans may indeed spend two more seasons at the old Bridge.

Today Chelsea FC and Ericsson announced their partnership. Ericsson's official role is Connected Venue partner, which simply translates to providing fast internet access and framework for mobile services at Stamford Bridge.

Last season Chelsea sold out all home games but many fans had trouble tweeting or posting on instagram and facebook due to limited network range. Now Ericsson is about to design and install a large system based on their Small Cell as a Service product, ensuring everyone's smooth connection.

Chelsea thus join Tottenham who also recently announced a similar partnership with HPE. Ericsson's product is available since 2015 and Legia Warszawa was the first in Europe to implement it. In the future such system can serve as basis for expansion of club's multimedia and commercial opportunities.

“Through this partnership, we will ensure the connectivity at Stamford Bridge matches the quality of the football and look forward to exploring further options that will enable Chelsea FC to take the digital experience to the next level.” said Arun Bansal, Ericsson's Senior Vice President for Europe & Latin America.

The news of new Connective Venue partner seems to suggest Chelsea fans will indeed spend the next two seasons at the current Stadium. Previously their relocation to an alternative ground was anticipated in 2018, in order to make way for the new 60,000-seat Stamford Bridge.