Lyngby Boldklub receives a licence from Datatilsynet to use automatic facial recognition in Superliga, valid while the club remains in the top division. The licence was granted on 16 July 2025 following a review by the Data Council and applies to biometric data processing under §7, sub-section 4 of the Data Protection Act.
What does the licence mean for Lyngby Boldklub?
The new licence allows the club to deploy automatic facial-recognition systems at the stadium during Superliga matches, but only while the club remains in the top division. Management must carry out a consequence analysis before data collection can begin. In practice this means the club can identify spectators and players in real time, potentially enhancing security and fan experience. At the same time the club must comply with the TV Surveillance Act §§ 4c, sub-sections 4 and 5, which require transparency and protection of personal data.
How does this affect AC Horsens?
AC Horsens received the same licence on the same date. Both clubs were promoted from the 1st Division to Superliga for the 2025/26 season, making the licence relevant for their upcoming fixtures. Like Lyngby, AC Horsens must conduct a consequence analysis and ensure that use of facial recognition complies with both the Data Protection Act and the TV Surveillance Act. This allows both clubs to use the technology to improve stadium security, but only while they remain in the Superliga.
What can fans expect during matches?
Fans can expect the facial-recognition system to be used mainly to identify people on the pitch who may pose a security risk. The system will also help log spectators, giving the club valuable audience data. Despite the technological benefits, the club must still adhere to the Data Protection Act, and fans must be informed about how their data is processed. In the current season Lyngby sits in 10th place in the Superliga with 18 points, 3 wins, 9 draws and 10 losses from 22 matches. They have scored 15 goals and conceded 26, a goal difference of minus 11. The club is 27 points behind FC Midtjylland, the league leaders. Their most recent result was a 1-1 draw against FC Midtjylland on 16 August 2026, and they have been unbeaten in the last match. Their next fixture is against FC Midtjylland at home on 25 October 2026.
Why is the licence limited to Superliga?
The licence was issued specifically for Superliga, 1st Division, 2nd Division and UEFA matches, including training games. It is valid only while the club is in the Superliga, meaning that if Lyngby or AC Horsens were relegated the licence would cease. This condition ensures that facial-recognition use occurs only in the most critical matches where security is paramount. Fans can check the club’s league position on our standings page and view upcoming fixtures on our fixtures page.
