Contents
Venue safety has never been more top-of-mind for fans, facility operators, and the security industry. In its newly released 2025 Spectator Survey Industry Research Report, the National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security (NCS4) provides a window into how today’s event-goers perceive safety and what they want—offering actionable insights for those responsible for protecting both people and experiences at stadiums, arenas, and other large venues.
Understanding Fan Sentiment
The NCS4 report reveals a powerful takeaway: fans overwhelmingly prioritize security when attending live sports events, but they want to feel protected, not policed. Over two-thirds of survey respondents said they prefer visible security measures such as uniformed staff, law enforcement, metal detectors, and clearly marked surveillance equipment. These visible indicators offer reassurance that safety is taken seriously without detracting from the event’s excitement.
At the same time, persistent pain points remain. About one-third of fans indicated that security procedures—when perceived as cumbersome or intrusive—negatively affected their event experience. This suggests that while robust security is non-negotiable, there is a need to balance efficiency, transparency, and empathy in the chosen approach.
The Technology Conversation: New Tools, New Trust Dynamics
Technology now plays an unprecedented role in modern venue security. The NCS4 survey found most fans were comfortable with advanced security technologies, including screening wands, walk-through detectors, body-worn cameras on staff, and visible CCTV coverage. This trend marks a rapid evolution in public attitude. Today’s sports attendees understand that digital security toolsets can reduce risk while streamlining access.
However, the data also suggests that fan trust must be continually earned. Spectators are becoming increasingly aware of how their data is captured and used, especially as AI-powered threat detection, facial recognition, and behavioral analysis tools become more commonplace in the industry. This highlights the need for all venue security personnel and media spokespersons to be able to clearly communicate what these technologies do, why they’re being used, and how guest privacy is protected.
Blending Safety and Satisfaction
So how should venue operators respond?
First, by acknowledging that security and guest experience are inseparable. There is an argument to be made that now security teams should be trained not just in emergency protocols, but also in hospitality and customer interaction. This security upskilling in these soft skill sets ensures that every checkpoint or encounter feels like an extension of the stadium’s brand commitment.
Second, forward transformation in technology must go hand-in-hand with transparency. Sharing with fans how new technology helps keep them safe, and what steps are taken to protect their privacy, can strengthen trust and mitigate fears of surveillance overreach.
Finally, continuous feedback is essential. Regularly surveying fans about their perceptions, experiences, and concerns will help venues fine-tune policies and keep pace with changing expectations.
The Wrap Up
The recent NCS4 Spectator Survey Industry Research Report offers valuable insights for ensuring safety at live events, especially as risk factors continue to evolve.
It emphasizes a clear message for operators: fans today expect and deserve security strategies that are visible, intelligent, and empathetic, and successfully implementing these strategies will both protect event attendees and propel the overall fan experience.