Reading host PSG and Ajax at AI summit and launch Setanta College programme

Reading are hosting clubs including Paris Saint-Germain and Ajax at an artificial intelligence conference on Friday, bringing European football representatives to the League One side's Bearwood Park training complex. BBC Sport reported that Crystal Palace and Como are also among the visitors, with participating clubs sharing their experience of using the technology in football.

The gathering comes a year after Reading established an AI department under new owner Rob Couhig. Stuart Fenton, the club's head of AI, told BBC Radio Berkshire that the visitors' participation reflected the progress of Reading's programme. He said the event was also an opportunity to learn from other clubs, rather than simply demonstrate the work already being carried out at Bearwood Park.

Recruitment is the main focus of Reading's use of AI, according to the BBC's report by Ben Miller. The club has taken inspiration from the use of data at Brighton & Hove Albion and Brentford. Fenton described the volume of information available in football as a challenge for staff, with technology being used to help organise that material and provide the recruitment team with more information about players around the world.

The work extends beyond identifying potential signings. Reading have also applied AI to tactics, retail and maintenance of the pitch at their Select Car Leasing Stadium. Fenton said ground staff had recently discussed their use of models concerned with grass protection and formulas for looking after the playing surface. He presented those examples as part of the programme's impact across different departments, rather than a tool confined to football analysis.

Fenton said the intention was to help employees perform their roles more effectively, not replace them. He also cautioned against expecting an immediate transformation from adopting AI, describing benefits that build across the organisation. Staff bringing forward their own ideas for applications was another development he highlighted in discussing the club's approach.

Alongside the exchange between clubs, Friday's event is being used to launch a programme linking Reading with Setanta College in sports technology and artificial intelligence. The visitors will hear about Reading's work and contribute their own insights, giving the conference both a club-to-club discussion role and a platform for the new educational collaboration.