FIFA to Scan World Cup Players to Create Next-Gen Offside Avatars
FIFA is set to take World Cup technology to the next level by creating AI-enabled 3D avatars of every player at the 2026 tournament, boosting the accuracy and realism of semi-automated offside decisions.
All 1,248 players in the 26-man squads of the 48 teams will undergo a one-second digital scan during their pre-tournament photo shoot. FIFA says the scans capture precise body-part dimensions, allowing officials to track players reliably even during fast or obstructed movements. This ensures that offside decisions are displayed more accurately and engagingly for fans.
The move comes after recent controversy in the Premier League, where a Newcastle goal against Manchester City sparked debate because the semi-automated offside graphic didn’t match the TV footage. By scanning every player in advance, FIFA aims to make such decisions clearer, fairer, and visually immersive.
The technology has already been tested in FIFA’s Intercontinental Cup, with Flamengo and Pyramids FC players scanned ahead of their December match. FIFA is also experimenting with real-time 3D recreations and technology that determines if the ball goes out of play before a goal is scored, promising an even more precise and interactive viewing experience for fans worldwide.
With these innovations, the 2026 World Cup is shaping up to be not just a sporting spectacle, but a technological showcase.
