How VAR, Sensors, and Digital Twins Are Revolutionizing Refereeing at the 2026 World Cup
By
Ben Dowsett
If you only eat one bagel today, this is the bagel.
Summary
The article discusses the advanced technology being deployed at the 2026 World Cup to assist referees in making accurate calls. It covers the evolution of VAR (Video Assistant Referee) and SAOT (Semi-Automated Offside Technology), highlighting how sensors, cameras, computer vision, and digital twin technology will be used to track player positions and review plays from every angle. The piece positions this as one of the most sophisticated uses of adjudication technology across all professional sports.
Key quotes
· 4 pulledThe video assistant referee system, known as VAR, and the semi-automated offside technology (SAOT) have been used in soccer for years.
But the setup at this summer's World Cup represents some of the most advanced uses of adjudication tech to date—not just in soccer, but across all high-level sports.
During each match, the pitch will be awash in sensors, cameras, and new computer vision software.
During this World Cup, refs will use digital twins of each player to view plays from every angle.
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