The recent ADAC RAVENOL 24h Race at Germany’s Nürburgring circuit marked a milestone for live broadcast production.
Clear-Com played a pivotal role in keeping the operation connected, enabling nearly 28 hours of continuous coverage—the longest live TV sports broadcast on record.
Communications Infrastructure and Technical Support
Clear-Com and its German distributor, Audio-Technica, provided direct technical support for reliable setup and operation. Using EHX configuration software and monitoring tools, operators maintained complete control of the communications network throughout the marathon broadcast.
Deployment of Clear-Com Equipment
The setup included 21 FreeSpeak® II IP transceivers, 20 FreeSpeak II beltpacks, and four new FreeSpeak Icon™ beltpacks across the site. Despite the high density of DECT systems on the circuit, Clear-Com ensured flawless performance through precise planning and sophisticated configuration.
Race Production Details
Featuring 130 cars and 500 drivers, the 24-hour endurance race is among the most demanding globally. The live broadcast, managed by TV Skyline, one of Europe’s largest mobile TV production companies, used three OB vans and over 70 camera feeds, including helicopters, a 650-meter cable camera, elevated platforms, and onboard views.
HDwireless and Clear-Com Integration
HDwireless GmbH provided the helicopter and wireless camera systems along with Clear-Com intercom infrastructure for pit lane, paddock, start/finish area, and helicopter. The Eclipse HX-Delta matrix system, with E-IPA-HX card, connected FreeSpeak II IP transceivers and intercom panels via an extensive AES67 fiber network.
Statement from Clear-Com
Alex Hemme, Regional Sales Manager at Clear-Com, said:
“At an event as technically demanding as the ADAC RAVENOL 24h Race, communication has to be absolutely reliable. Working closely with HDwireless and Audio-Technica, we ensured that every team, from OB vans to the pit lane, had clear, stable communication throughout the entire broadcast.”
Collaboration and Success
The success of the broadcast reflects collaboration between Clear-Com, Audio-Technica, and HDwireless. Together, they delivered a communication network that kept teams connected under challenging conditions, reinforcing Clear-Com’s reputation as a trusted partner for high-stakes live productions worldwide.
