FIFA to use AI-created 3D avatars to improve offside calls

FIFA and partner Lenovo will digitally scan players to create AI-enabled 3D avatars for semi-automated offside technology at next summer’s World Cup, and all teams will have access to a shared generative AI assistant for pre- and post-match analysis.

FIFA has announced that it will introduce several new artificial intelligence features at next summer's World Cup, including AI-enabled 3D avatars to support semi-automated offside decisions. Lenovo, described as FIFA’s technology partner, will digitally scan players to create precise 3D models that the organisation says can be tracked during fast or obscured movements. FIFA says the 3D models will be incorporated into host broadcasts to present offside calls more realistically to stadium and television audiences. The move follows trials at recent competitions where FIFA reported successful tests. Planned features: - Every player at the finals will be digitally scanned to produce an AI-enabled 3D avatar; FIFA’s release said each scan takes about one second and captures body-part dimensions. - The 3D models will be used alongside existing semi-automated offside technology (SAOT) to help track player positions and the key elements used in offside decisions. - FIFA said the models will be included in host broadcasts to show VAR-determined offside decisions more realistically for stadium and TV viewers. - The system was trialled at the Intercontinental Cup, where players from Flamengo and Pyramids FC were scanned; FIFA described that trial as successful. - All 48 teams will be given access to Lenovo’s generative AI knowledge assistant for pre- and post-match analysis, with in-match access restricted, FIFA said. - FIFA also plans to use AI to stabilise and improve referee-cam footage after a trial at the Club World Cup. Summary: FIFA says the new AI features are intended to support match officials and to make offside decisions clearer for audiences by integrating 3D player models into SAOT and broadcasts. The technologies were trialled at recent events and are scheduled for use at the World Cup next summer, while a shared generative AI assistant will be available to teams before and after matches. Undetermined at this time.