Cameras, sensors, and 3D body scans: All the tech helping eliminate blown calls

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature advanced technology to assist referees in making correct decisions. The most notable innovation is the use of digital twins: every player has undergone a 360-degree scan, and their precise body model is used to determine their exact position relative to the ball, lines, and other players.

Optical tracking is provided by Hawk-Eye with 16 high-resolution cameras (up from 12 in 2022), capturing over 20 skeletal points per player. Inside the ball, a Kinexon sensor module includes an ultrawide-band and IMU sensor (accelerometer and gyroscope) recording data 500 times per second. Unlike the 2022 version, the sensor is now placed on the inner wall via a vulcanized bladder, making it more stable.

Digital twins, created by Lenovo, replace generic avatars and offer accuracy within 1–2 mm. They are used for offside calls, red card reviews, and identifying incorrect player penalties. A new feature is a 3D goalkeeper view, which helps determine if an attacking player interfered with the keeper.

VAR can now send immediate alerts for obvious offside, stopping play right away. FIFA's director of innovation Johannes Holzmüller says the goal is to bring the best technology to the tournament, even if it only changes a few calls throughout the event.