On Friday April 24 at 20:30 Orange broadcasted the French Ligue 1 match between Lyon and Paris Saint-Germain in 3D. This was the first live 3D broadcast of a football match in European history. Working in partnership with Host Broadcast Services (HBS), the Host Broadcaster of Ligue 1, and the LFP (French Professional League), Orange brought its spectators closer to the pitch, and to the game, than ever before.

In addition to the equipment and personnel deployed at each Ligue 1 game, the 3D production of the match required six stereoscopic cameras, one OB Van and a number of crew members specialised in 3D production. Invited guests and fans from both teams were able to follow the broadcast in dedicated viewing areas within the Parc des Princes and Gerland stadium, the home grounds for the two teams.

HBS, long known within the industry for its tradition of technical innovation, has been happy to provide its 3D expertise to Orange in the build-up and delivery of this test. HBS previously covered the last four matches of the ice hockey 2008 IIHF World Championship in 3D in May of last year. HBS is building on its early experience with this remarkable technology and further developing the synergies between its various projects.