The 2026 FIFA World Cup marks a major step forward in the use of technology in football. And as always, remember that the 1xBet download procedure also offers the chance to bet on the FIFA World Cup too.
FIFA introduced many innovations designed to improve officiating in 3 ways:
- speed;
- accuracy;
- and transparency.
Building on the experience gained from previous tournaments, the governing body has enhanced the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system and related technologies. This has been done with 2 goals: improve decision-making and reduce interruptions to the flow of the game. If you download the 1xBet application, you can also bet on various decisions made with the assistance of VAR too.
One of the most significant developments is the introduction of Advanced Semi-Automated Offside Technology (SAOT). Unlike earlier versions, which primarily assisted VAR officials, the new system can send automatic alerts directly to the 4 on-field match officials when a clear positional offside is detected.
This allows assistant referees to raise the flag more quickly, reducing the delays that often occurred when attacks continued despite an obvious offside situation. FIFA states that the technology combines 4 elements: skeletal tracking, ball-tracking data, pitch calibration, and detailed 3D player scans to increase both speed and accuracy in offside decisions.
Using accurate models
Another innovation is the use of 3D player models. Before the tournament, all 1248 players from the 48 participating teams were digitally scanned. This enabled more realistic and precise visualizations during 2 instances: VAR reviews and television broadcasts. These enhanced graphics help officials and spectators better understand complex offside situations and other key incidents.
Referee body cameras are also being introduced on a larger scale after successful trials in FIFA competitions. The cameras provide a 1st-person view of the action and can be used in broadcasts to help fans understand the referee’s perspective. Improved image stabilization technology ensures clearer footage, creating a more immersive viewing experience and increasing transparency around officiating decisions.
Finally, in addition, FIFA has expanded the capabilities of VAR itself. The system now supports 3 things: faster reviews, broader authority in certain disciplinary situations, and more efficient correction of specific restart decisions. Enhanced monitoring tools are also being used to address issues such as time-wasting and player conduct.