People’s passion for sports is ever-growing and emerging digital technologies are offering exciting new ways to engage. From hyper-realistic skills training to augmented reality overlays for in-stadium experiences, the digitization of sport opens up a host of new possibilities for fans and athletes alike.
In addition to fan engagement, sports technology is reshaping venues and the entire sporting ecosystem. Stadiums are transforming into year-round hubs that drive economic activity through concerts, retail and more. Smart stadiums leverage IoT sensors to streamline parking, waste management and crowd flow using real-time occupancy and environmental data. For example, Mercedes-Benz Stadium uses a driver recognition system to guide cars into designated spots while Idemia’s MorphoWave Compact facilitates touchless entry for pre-registered fans at the entrance with just a wave of their hand.
The same advanced technology is enabling players to improve their performance and health. Sensors woven directly into apparel or equipment like football helmets, tennis shoes and soccer boots monitor key metrics such as speed, distance covered and player load to identify potential injuries early. Some even detect the force distribution of physical impact, which is especially helpful for amateur athletes that may not have access to expert physiotherapy and injury prevention services.
This granular data is also making its way into broadcasts, with intelligent analytics that inform and enrich the viewer experience. For instance, Nike’s Aerogami system combines climate-adaptive gear with embedded sensors to reduce core body temperature by opening and closing vents depending on humidity levels.