WASHINGTON, Jan. 7 (Xinhua) -- FIFA and its Official Technology Partner Lenovo on Wednesday jointly announced that multiple artificial intelligence (AI) technologies developed by the Chinese tech company will be deployed at the FIFA World Cup 2026 to enhance referee technologies, improve match analysis capabilities and boost fan engagement.
According to the announcement, the upcoming World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the United States will see the application of several AI-driven solutions developed by Lenovo, including Football AI Pro, an AI-enabled 3D player avatar visualization system for the video assistant referee (VAR), and an updated version of the Referee View broadcast footage.
Football AI Pro is a generative AI-powered knowledge assistant designed to support all 48 participating teams to analyze millions of data points generated in each match, the tool will assist coaches, players and analysts in match preparation, tactical planning and personalized decision-making.
The AI-enabled 3D player avatar solution represents a major advancement in semi-automated offside technology. All participating players will undergo digital scanning to generate highly accurate 3D models, which will be integrated into the host broadcast, and it will allow offside decisions determined by the VAR system to be presented in a more realistic and engaging manner to fans in stadiums and viewers worldwide.
The updated version of the Referee View broadcast footage uses AI-powered stabilization software to smooth footage captured from the referee's camera in real time, reducing motion blur caused by rapid movement. The stabilized images will provide global audiences with a higher-quality first-person perspective, improving transparency, understanding and engagement throughout matches.
"The FIFA World Cup in 2026 is going to be the greatest show ever on planet Earth," said FIFA President Gianni Infantino. "FIFA and Lenovo are fully embracing digital technologies and Artificial Intelligence, 'Football AI', to support teams and match officials, while also providing a new mind-blowing experience to fans worldwide."
Lenovo Chairman and CEO Yang Yuanqing said the World Cup powered by Lenovo's AI technologies would be one of the most technologically advanced sporting events in history. "We are providing complete IT solutions, enhancing the delivery and experience of the tournament at every level. Football AI Pro will be a game-changer, and we can't wait to see it, as well as our other innovations developed with FIFA, used at FIFA World Cup 2026," he added.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be held from June to July in the United States, Canada and Mexico, marking the first edition of the tournament to feature 48 teams. ■
