We’re pleased to share that Rhenac has been shortlisted as a finalist in the 2026 Smarter Sports Awards in the “Venue and Infrastructure Innovation” category.
The recognition highlights our Complete Light Spectrum® (CLS®) technology and its contribution to more sustainable turf growth through the replication of natural sunlight.
Organised by the Sports Technology Awards Group, the Smarter Sports Awards celebrate innovation across the global sports industry, bringing together organisations and technologies that are shaping the future of sport in areas such as infrastructure, performance and venue operations.
This year’s shortlist reflects how innovation in sport extends far beyond software and digital tools, with engineering, manufacturing and stadium design playing a key role in advancing the industry.
Developed in collaboration with the Technical University of Munich, CLS® is based on years of plant-biology research. The system recreates the full spectrum of natural sunlight using advanced LED luminaires, supporting healthy growth of natural and hybrid turf in stadiums where daylight is limited by roofs, shading or intensive use.
Today, CLS® is implemented at leading European venues including the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, VELTINS-Arena and facilities operated by 1. FC Köln.
Horst Theisen, CEO of Group Rhenac, said:
“We are honoured to be a finalist in the Smarter Sports Awards. It is encouraging to see technologies that support stadium operations and playing-surface quality recognised alongside innovations from across the global sports industry.This recognition reflects the work of our engineering and research teams, as well as the collaboration with grounds professionals who continue to push for better and more sustainable solutions for natural turf.”
The winners will be announced at the live ceremony in London on 13 May 2026.
Full shortlist: sportstechgroup.org/smarter-sports-awards/shortlist/