FIFA World Cup 2026™: Tech Innovations & AI Enhancements

Semi-Automated Offside Technology Cuts Errors by 90% at 2026 World Cup

FIFA's semi-automated offside system, powered by 12 dedicated tracking cameras and an AI model that processes limb positions 50 times per second, has slashed decision time to under 2 seconds during the 2026 World Cup. In extensive trials, the system achieved 99.3% accuracy compared to 91% for human officials, leading to a 90% reduction in offside controversies.

Offside errors fell by 90% in tournament matches, a figure FIFA officials call "unprecedented" in the sport's history.

• 12 tracking cameras and a limb-tracking AI reduce offside decision time to under 2 seconds.
• System accuracy of 99.3% surpasses human officials' 91% — a 90% drop in disputed calls.
• Automatic alerts with 3D animation overlay are sent to VAR, ensuring complete transparency.

The technology, developed in collaboration with several tech partners, integrates seamlessly with existing VAR infrastructure and is being considered for permanent adoption across all FIFA competitions. Similar data-driven advancements are transforming other sports, as seen in baseball's analytics revolution in our analysis of data analytics in MLB.

Stadiums Equipped with 5G-Advanced and Edge Computing Deliver 1 Petabyte of Data per Match

Each of the 16 World Cup venues is equipped with dedicated 5G-Advanced small cells and edge servers capable of handling up to 1 petabyte of data per match. This infrastructure supports real-time player biometrics, ball tracking, and fan augmented reality experiences.

One petabyte of data per match — equivalent to 2 million hours of music — is processed to deliver instant analytics and immersive fan features.

• 5G-Advanced small cells and edge computing deliver 1 PB of bandwidth per match for real-time tracking and fan AR.
• Stadium apps overlay live player stats when fans point their phone at the pitch, powered by edge AI.
• Backend AI predicts network demand to dynamically allocate spectrum, ensuring low latency for officiating feeds.

This level of connectivity was previously unimaginable. The tech stack builds on lessons from earlier implementations, such as Guatemala's pioneering use of AI in soccer, scaled to a global stage.

AI-Generated Multi-Angle Broadcasts Personalize Viewing for Each Fan

The official streaming service uses AI to stitch together 12 8K cameras, allowing viewers to click anywhere on the pitch to follow the action from that angle with less than 100ms delay. Machine learning algorithms generate real-time highlight reels tailored to each fan's preferences, such as favorite players or defensive plays.

Viewers can switch between 12 8K camera angles with zero perceptible latency — a feat made possible by AI-based video stitching and edge caching.

• AI stitching of 12 8K cameras enables click-to-follow angle switching under 100ms.
• ML-driven highlights are personalized for each fan based on viewing history and preferences.
• For VR users, a volumetric capture system provides a 180-degree view from behind the goal, synced with stadium audio.

These immersive options set a new standard for sports broadcasting, giving fans unprecedented control over how they experience every match.

Key Takeaways

• AI-driven offside technology at the 2026 World Cup reduces errors by 90% and speeds decisions to under 2 seconds.
• Stadium connectivity via 5G-Advanced and edge computing processes up to 1 petabyte per match.
• Immersive streaming with 8K multi-angle views and zero-latency switching transforms at-home viewing.
• Personalized AI highlight generation and VR options offer unprecedented fan control.
• All technologies are designed to integrate with existing broadcast infrastructure and are scalable for future tournaments.