Technological innovation

The rapid rise of new technology is enabling unprecedented innovation in the way we participate in, view, and engage with sports.

From the infusion of artificial intelligence into broadcast technology, data analysis and content generation to the breakthroughs in the design and materials used in sports apparel and equipment, the sports industry is ripe for change.

As we explore the digital frontier, new opportunities emerge to revolutionise the sporting experience for athletes, fans, and stakeholders alike.

  • AI Integration: Integration of AI and machine learning in sports analytics, enabling real-time performance insights and strategic decision-making.

  • Wearable tech: Advancements in wearable technology for athletes, providing valuable data on performance, health, and recovery

  • Sports equipment: Innovations in sports equipment, such as 3D-printed custom gear and smart apparel that adapts to environmental conditions.

  • Digital Worlds & Esports: The rise of virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and esports is blurring the lines between physical and digital sports, offering new immersive experiences for fans and athletes alike for competition and spectatorship.

  • Sustainability: A growing focus on sustainability is leading to innovations in stadium design, event management, and sports equipment manufacturing, aiming to reduce the environmental impact of sports.

Future Outlook

  • esports / physical / digital: Continued growth and mainstream acceptance of esports, blurring the lines between traditional and digital sports

  • Virtual coaches: Development of AI-powered virtual coaches and training systems to optimise athlete performance

  • Athlete Empowerment: Technology will continue to empower athletes, providing them with tools for data-driven training, injury prevention, and performance optimization.

  • Blockchain integration: Integration of blockchain technology for secure, transparent ticketing and merchandise authentication

  • New frontiers: Exploration of new frontiers in sports, such as zero-gravity or underwater competitions, enabled by technological advancements

Examples:

🎾 Researchers have developed an AI model that can identify the emotional states of tennis players with high accuracy by analysing their body language during matches. The AI, trained on real-life footage, can detect positive and negative emotions has potential applications in training.

🎾 Wimbledon launched its ‘eChamps’ esports tournament on Top Spin 2K25. The number one tennis video game has the full tournament license as England’s famous tennis Grand Slam seeks to engage younger audiences.

⚽ Genius Sports were appointed as the Premier League’s semi-automated officiating supplier.   

Enabling faster, more detailed decision-making, GeniusIQ’s AI capabilities instantly create a digital twin of the game, facilitating incredibly precise offside decisions and broadcast-ready graphics. 

🎮 Freeaim have created VR shoes that are compatible with all SteamVR-supported headsets. Users can now walk inside virtual reality games, thanks to motorised wheels that let users ‘step’ without actually moving.

🎾The ATP Tour has given the green light to in-competition wearables, ushering in a new era of innovative data-led performance analytics and injury prevention in tennis.

🎮 The first Olympic Esports Games are set to be added soon to the IOC’s portfolio of events as it "seeks to attract and retain young audiences," according to the IOC.