Wireless Microphone Spectrum Alliance Highlights Need for Spectrum at Major Events

WMSA calls for preserving and protecting spectrum access for wireless microphones at the Super Bowl, FIFA World Cup, and Olympics

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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The Wireless Microphone Spectrum Alliance (WMSA) was formed to raise awareness about the critical need for wireless microphone spectrum access at high-profile live events like the Super Bowl, FIFA World Cup, and Olympics. WMSA, a coalition of manufacturers, audio engineers, and broadcast professionals, is working with the FCC, Congress, and other agencies to secure sufficient spectrum to support the hundreds of wireless channels required for talent, crew, referees, and broadcasters at these massive events.

Why it matters

Wireless microphones are essential for the successful production of major sporting, entertainment, and cultural events that generate significant economic value and are a vital part of American media and culture. Without adequate spectrum access, these large-scale events could become unviable in many cities, threatening thousands of skilled jobs and the country's global leadership in media.

The details

WMSA was formed to address the growing spectrum needs for wireless microphones at events like the Super Bowl, which can require hundreds of wireless channels for talent, crew, referees, and broadcasters. Professional audio engineers use techniques like multiplexing, directional antennas, and frequency planning to mitigate interference, but the remaining spectrum in the 470-608 MHz band is insufficient, forcing organizers to increasingly rely on ad hoc FCC special temporary authority grants, which is not a long-term solution.

  • The 2026 Super Bowl, 2026 FIFA World Cup, and 2028 Olympics will create tremendous demand for wireless microphone spectrum.
  • WMSA was formed in 2025 to address these spectrum needs with the FCC, Congress, and other agencies.

The players

Wireless Microphone Spectrum Alliance (WMSA)

A coalition of manufacturers, audio engineers, and broadcast professionals formed to raise awareness about the critical need for wireless microphone spectrum access at high-profile live events.

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

The U.S. government agency that regulates radio frequency spectrum, including for wireless microphones.

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What’s next

WMSA is continuing to work with the FCC and other agencies to secure access to additional spectrum to support the wireless microphone needs of major events like the Super Bowl, FIFA World Cup, and Olympics.

The takeaway

The growing demand for wireless microphone spectrum at high-profile live events highlights the critical role these technologies play in American media and culture, and the need to preserve and protect access to this essential resource.