AI’s World Cup debut: real-time data poised to reshape football strategy, level the field

Each team will have access to its own AI model, allowing analysts to compare playing patterns through video clips and 3D avatars. Coaches will be able to assess how tactical changes might work against their next opponents, while players will receive personalised match analysis.

The system, known as “Football AI Pro”, can analyse hundreds of millions of Fifa data points and process more than 2,000 football-related metrics, including pressing, movement, tactics and transitions. It delivers insights as text explanations, charts or short video clips, and was developed by Lenovo, Fifa’s technology partner for the tournament.

“If in the past rich teams had an advantage, in 2026 AI will democratise data and give everyone a similar chance,” Bank of America Global Research wrote in a May 6 note.

Jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States across 16 cities, the 2026 Fifa World Cup will feature an expanded format of 48 teams and 104 matches. The opening game is scheduled for June 11.

At the mega-event, players will also be digitally scanned in about one second to create accurate 3D versions of their bodies. The technology is expected to make offside decisions more accurate and easier to explain, giving referees better information and helping fans better understand video assistant referee calls.

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