FIFA adds AI player avatars, referee cams, and sensor balls for 2026

In short: FIFA is rolling out a set of AI and sensor tools for the 2026 World Cup to help officials make clearer calls and to show fans better replays.

What happened

FIFA and Lenovo have developed AI-enabled 3D digital avatars for every player at the 2026 World Cup. Before the tournament, each player will be scanned using a multi-camera setup, which Lenovo says uses 36 cameras and takes under a second to capture, with about 30 seconds for the full process. The result is a precise 3D model of the player’s body, like a detailed digital mannequin made to match the real person.

These avatars will feed into FIFA’s semi-automated offside system. Offside decisions can depend on small details, like whether a player’s shoulder or foot was ahead at the key moment. FIFA says the avatars help track exact body part positions during fast play, but the system does not replace VAR, which is the video review process led by human officials.

FIFA is also highlighting a referee body camera that can be used for broadcast replays. AI is used to stabilize the video so it is easier to watch while the referee is running. On top of that, FIFA is continuing Connected Ball Technology, which uses sensors inside the match ball to track movement and help identify the exact moment the ball was kicked.

Why it matters

For fans, this could make controversial calls easier to understand, since broadcasts can show 3D replays of the real players instead of generic outlines. For referees, it adds extra data points, like a more accurate timestamp of ball contact, which can reduce guesswork in tight decisions.

Source: NYTimes