FIFA Technology is set to redefine decision-making at the next World Cup as the global body prepares to digitally scan every participating footballer to create lifelike 3D avatars.
A total of 1,248 players from 26 squads across 48 teams will undergo the process, designed to make offside rulings more precise and visually clearer for fans.
FIFA’s Bold Step Toward Perfect Offside Calls
According to reports, each player will briefly step into a scanning room during pre-match photo sessions, where a high-speed image will be captured in just one second. FIFA says the scans will collect exact body measurements, helping referees judge offside situations with greater accuracy.
FIFA believes the system will allow officials to “reliably track players even during fast or unclear movements,” while also ensuring decisions are “more realistic and attractively displayed” for viewers.
Learning From Past Controversies
The move follows criticism earlier this season after a controversial Newcastle goal against Manchester City, where semi-automated offside graphics appeared inconsistent with live TV footage.
By building precise digital models of players, FIFA hopes to eliminate such discrepancies and improve transparency for fans watching at home.
Technology Already Put to the Test
The scanning system has already been trialed at the Intercontinental Cup, where players from Flamengo and Pyramids FC were digitally mapped before their match in December.
Last month, FIFA also revealed it is testing additional innovations, including technology to confirm whether the ball went out of play before a goal and a “real-time 3D recreation” tool for line-of-sight offside judgments.
With these advancements, FIFA is pushing toward a future where human error is minimized and every crucial decision is backed by cutting-edge technology.
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