FIFA World Cup 2026 Adds Sensor Balls, AI Avatars, Robot Dogs
The tournament will feature new technology including sensor-equipped match balls, AI-generated player models, and robot security units across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. FIFA also introduced updated offside detection and fixed hydration breaks.
Al JazeeraThe FIFA World Cup 2026 will use sensor-equipped match balls that transmit movement data 500 times per second to video assistant referees. The technology is intended to support faster and more accurate decisions on offside calls and other incidents.
The official ball contains an inertial measurement unit chip that records acceleration and three-dimensional motion. FIFA stated the data will reach the VAR system in real time.
Players will undergo one-second body scans to create 3D digital models. FIFA said the models will improve semi-automated offside tracking and allow more realistic offside graphics for stadium and television viewers. Referee body cameras will also be deployed at all 104 matches.
Mexican police in the Monterrey area will use four-legged robots purchased for 2.5 million pesos to enter high-risk zones and send live video to officers. The mayor of Guadalupe said the units are meant to protect officers during initial responses to incidents.
The revised semi-automated offside technology will alert referees via earpiece when a player is more than 10 centimeters offside. The system is limited to positional decisions and will not handle subjective judgments or the closest calls.
Three-minute hydration breaks will occur around the 22nd minute of each half at every match regardless of weather or venue conditions. FIFA's chief tournament officer for the United States said the breaks are scheduled from whistle to whistle.
