The 2026 World Cup will feature some of the most advanced uses of adjudication technology to date, with a plethora of sensors, cameras, and computer vision software being used to help referees make accurate calls. The video assistant referee system (VAR) and semi-automated offside technology (SAOT) have been upgraded with new digital twin technology that can precisely match players' height, limb length, and shoe size, allowing for more accurate determinations of their position relative to the ball and other players.
What Happened
The 2026 World Cup will see a significant upgrade in adjudication technology, with Hawk-Eye remaining the event's optical tracking provider. The system uses 16 high-resolution cameras this time around compared to 12 in 2022, and combines optical data with advanced sensors inside the ball itself. Kinexon, a leader in sports wearables, will provide the match ball's digital brain, which includes an ultrawide-band and IMU sensor setup that tracks the ball's precise location and any distinct touches.
The new system also features 3D body scans of every player, taken by Lenovo's tech partner. These scans will be ingested into the Hawk-Eye system, where they will replace generic avatars used for offside and other VAR applications. The digital twin technology can determine a player's exact position relative to the ball, boundary lines, and other players with an accuracy of 1-2 millimeters.
Background and Context
The use of adjudication technology in sports has been growing rapidly over the past few years. VAR was first introduced at the 2018 World Cup, and has since become a standard feature in many high-level sports. However, the current system has its limitations, particularly when it comes to accuracy. The new digital twin technology is designed to address these issues, providing a more accurate and reliable way of determining player positions.
The use of 3D body scans is also becoming increasingly common in various industries, including healthcare, fashion, and sports. These scanners can capture detailed information about an individual's body shape, muscle tone, and other characteristics, allowing for more accurate measurements and analysis. In the context of sports, this technology has the potential to revolutionize the way teams train and prepare for games.
Why It Matters to the Industry
The use of adjudication technology in sports raises several questions about accuracy, fairness, and the role of human referees. The new digital twin technology is designed to provide a more accurate and reliable way of determining player positions, which could potentially reduce controversy and disputes over calls. However, it also raises concerns about the potential for bias and errors in the system.
The use of 3D body scans in sports also has implications for team training and preparation. By providing detailed information about an individual's body shape and muscle tone, teams can gain a better understanding of their players' strengths and weaknesses, allowing them to tailor their training programs more effectively.
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