IBM works with Bayer 04 Leverkusen on cloud AI platform

IBM and Bayer 04 Leverkusen developed a cloud-based platform to automate analysis of match and training video, shortening manual review and reallocating analyst, scout and decision-maker time; the effort supported digital progress in professional football.

The companies described the result as an important component for digital progress in professional football and framed it as Artificial Intelligence (AI) innovation for German professional sports, and they said the automation created more time for targeted, professional work with teams.

Technical elements of the platform included IBM watsonx.AI Studio for creation and adaptation of AI models and IBM watsonx.AI Runtime for integrating AI processes into workflows; IBM Cloud Object Storage provided highly available storage for video content while IBM Cloud Serverless Computing automated compute‑intensive tasks to enable scalable operation.

Built in close coordination between the organizations and operated entirely on the IBM Cloud, the system incorporated automated image recognition to shorten previously time‑consuming manual analyses; stated platform advantages included optimized data processing, intelligent pattern recognition, flexibility and scalability, and an improved user experience for coaching and planning staff.

“Our collaboration with Bayer 04 Leverkusen shows how AI technologies and innovative cloud solutions can create decisive advantages for data-intensive requirements,” said Hardy Groeger, Distinguished Engineer, Director Data Software Technical Sales & Client Success IBM DACH. “The platform provides reliable, explainable insights that promote a data-driven future for professional football while making the club's processes more efficient.”

“At Bayer 04 Leverkusen, we see ourselves as pioneers in the use of digital solutions to expand the possibilities of professional football,” said Moritz Laux, Team Lead 'Sports Technologies', Bayer 04 Leverkusen. “With IBM's technologies, we are expanding our analytical capabilities. This partnership is a milestone for us on the path to a future-oriented and data-driven digitalization of important processes.” The companies described plans to extend the platform to incorporate future technologies, Application Programming Interface (API) integrations, and to apply it to additional teams.