The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to incorporate extensive applications of artificial intelligence, marking a significant shift in how the tournament will be analysed, managed and experienced. The event will utilise real-time data models and 3D simulation technologies across multiple operational and sporting dimensions.
Each participating team is expected to receive a dedicated AI model designed to analyse opposition playing styles using video clips and 3D avatars. These systems will compare tactical scenarios and present potential outcomes to support coaching decisions. Players will also receive advanced individual performance analysis generated through these platforms.
A system known as “Football AI Pro” will process hundreds of millions of football-related data points derived from FIFA datasets. It is capable of analysing more than 2,000 performance indicators, including pressing intensity, movement patterns, tactical transitions, attacking sequences and defensive structures. The outputs are presented in multiple formats, including written reports, charts and short video clips.
The technology has been developed by Lenovo, a technology partner of the World Cup. According to research cited by Bank of America, the introduction of AI-based systems is expected to reduce the technological gap between financially stronger and weaker teams, creating a more balanced analytical environment.
The tournament will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada across 16 cities. A total of 48 teams will compete in 104 matches, with the opening match scheduled for 11 June.
Tournament and AI Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Host countries | United States, Mexico, Canada |
| Host cities | 16 |
| Participating teams | 48 |
| Total matches | 104 |
| Opening match date | 11 June |
| Key AI system | Football AI Pro |
| Data indicators analysed | 2,000+ |
| Estimated data generation | 90+ petabytes |
Player tracking technology will also be enhanced. Each player’s body will be digitally scanned in approximately one second to generate a precise 3D model. This will support more accurate offside decisions and improve the interpretation of VAR-related rulings, allowing clearer understanding of officiating decisions.
In addition, every stadium will be equipped with a “digital twin”, a real-time virtual replica of the physical venue. These models will provide continuous updates on crowd movement, security conditions and player health-related data.
Data production is expected to reach unprecedented levels. According to SanDisk, more than 90 petabytes of data will be generated during the tournament, approximately 45 times greater than the volume recorded during the 2022 Qatar World Cup. Bank of America estimates that total data generation, including social media activity, mobile usage and related digital interactions, could reach approximately 2 exabytes, equivalent to around 45,000 years of 4K video content.
Bank of America has stated that this will be the first World Cup in which data itself becomes a central product, with real-world activity continuously converted into large-scale digital datasets at a rate of several petabytes per week.
Outside the stadium environment, autonomous transport systems will also be deployed. Seven companies are expected to operate robotaxi services across 10 cities. Waymo is set to provide passenger services in seven host cities and conduct pilot operations in an additional three cities.
Humanoid robotics will also be deployed for operational support. Hyundai, through Boston Dynamics, plans to use Atlas and Spot robots in selected US host cities. These robots will be assigned roles in stadium operations, equipment transport and spectator assistance.
In the wider sporting context, AI-assisted decision-making systems have already been tested in professional sport. Oakland Ballers became the first professional baseball team to use AI for most match-related decisions, including team selection, batting line-ups and in-game substitutions. Similarly, Norwegian club HamKam FC has experimented with AI systems acting in a head coach capacity.