FIFA Plans AI Offside Avatars as part of a major technological upgrade aimed at improving decision-making accuracy at the 2026 World Cup. The initiative will see every participating player digitally scanned to support the tournament’s semi-automated offside system.
All 1,248 players from the 48 qualified teams will be scanned during pre-tournament photo sessions. The process takes around one second per player and only needs to be completed once, making it efficient and non-intrusive for teams.
Why FIFA Plans AI Offside Avatars to Improve Accuracy
The scans will capture precise body-part dimensions, allowing match officials to track players more reliably during quick movements or crowded situations. This added precision is expected to reduce errors and improve consistency in offside calls.
Recent criticism of offside graphics in domestic leagues has highlighted the need for clearer visuals. By using exact digital replicas of players, FIFA aims to avoid mismatches between on-screen graphics and real match footage.
The new system is also designed with supporters in mind. Decisions will be displayed in a more realistic and engaging way, helping fans better understand how key calls are made during matches.
How FIFA Plans AI Offside Avatars After Successful Testing
The technology has already been tested in FIFA competitions, including the Intercontinental Cup, where players were scanned ahead of matches. These trials have helped refine the system ahead of its full introduction at the World Cup.
Alongside offside improvements, FIFA continues to test new tools such as ball out-of-play detection and real-time 3D recreations. Together, these innovations aim to raise officiating standards and increase trust in match decisions at the world’s biggest football event.
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