Securing the future of football: Google Cloud and Atlético de Madrid expand cybersecurity partnership

In an era where digital security is more important than ever, Atlético de Madrid is strengthening its defenses beyond the pitch. Known for their resilience and tactical discipline on the field, the club is taking the same proactive approach to securing its digital operations and fan experience. 

At Google Cloud, we are proud to be extending our partnership with Atlético de Madrid to become the official cybersecurity partner across both the women’s and men’s teams, reinforcing our shared commitment to innovation and resilience in sports technology.

Kicking off the partnership

Since our collaboration began, Google Cloud and Atlético de Madrid have worked together to explore innovative ways to enhance the club’s cybersecurity posture. Paramount has been thinking through the importance of protecting sensitive data and maintaining the integrity of digital operations, including the security of its vast fanbase. Over the past months, we have worked together to better understand the threat landscape that Atlético de Madrid faces, and have begun to apply best practices in cybersecurity awareness and resilience.

Atlético de Madrid has invested in improving protection of both operational and fan data by moving to Google Cloud’s Backup and Disaster Recovery Service. This service, which automatically encrypts data at rest, ensures critical data and systems remain protected and operations can swiftly recover from any potential disruption.

Understanding the threat landscape 

Atlético de Madrid, and other global sports clubs, face a range of cybersecurity threats that could impact operations, reputation, and fan trust. These challenges include:

• Data breaches and fan data protection: With extensive amounts of personal data, including payment information and preferences, clubs must ensure stringent protection to comply with GDPR and prevent identity theft or fraud.

• Ransomware attacks: A cyberattack could cripple critical operations such as ticketing, merchandising, and performance analysis — especially during crucial game weeks.

• Website and mobile app security: As digital platforms play a crucial role in fan engagement, securing these touchpoints against defacement and DDoS attacks is essential.

• Phishing and social engineering: Players, staff, and even fans are potential targets for phishing attempts aimed at stealing credentials and financial information.

Ensuring that these potential threats are being addressed with a strong cybersecurity posture does more than protect Atlético de Madrid’s digital infrastructure — it enhances every player, employee, and fan interaction with the club and the beautiful game. 

Cybersecurity also plays a key role in preventing online scams and protecting fans from fraudulent ticket sales and merchandise offers. Even inside the stadium, robust security ensures that essential systems like electronic access controls and signage remain operational, providing a seamless experience for everyone.

Looking ahead

Moving forward, Google Cloud will continue to work alongside Atlético de Madrid to strengthen its security capabilities, explore new ways to innovate, and ensure the club remains protected in today’s fast-evolving threat landscape. 

For Atlético, this partnership goes beyond just implementing security measures, it’s about creating a safe and positive experience for everyone who interacts with the club.

“The safety and trust of our digital ecosystem is at the heart of everything we do,” said René Abril, CIO, Atlético de Madrid. “Cybersecurity plays a critical role in ensuring that every interaction with Atlético de Madrid — whether purchasing tickets, engaging online, or accessing club services — is secure and seamless. Working alongside Google Cloud has already given us valuable insights that we can use to strengthen our defenses and knowledge about the kind of threats facing every football club around the world.”

Google Cloud’s collaboration with Atlético de Madrid exemplifies how cybersecurity can enable innovation in sports technology. “Sports clubs today operate in an increasingly digital world, making cybersecurity more important than ever,” said Cristina Pitarch, Managing Director EMEA, Google Cloud Security. “Atlético de Madrid’s proactive approach sets a strong example for the industry. We’re excited to support their journey by sharing our expertise, exploring new challenges, and helping them build a secure foundation for the future.”

As technology and sports increasingly intersect, cybersecurity must remain a top priority. Through our ongoing partnership, we aim to set new standards in digital protection, ensuring Atlético de Madrid and its fans can enjoy every aspect of the game with confidence.