The global football industry is in the midst of a transformational period, primarily driven by exciting advancements in technology.
Some of the changes bear similarities to how the gambling industry has moved from its traditional brick-and-mortar roots to become a vibrant online sector.
Technology is the driving force behind the boom in popularity of bingo and other gaming verticals, and it is proving to be similarly influential in football.
With that in mind, read on as we look at how the 2025 Club World Cup is laying the foundations for a new technology-driven era in the sport.
Referee cameras
The innovative ‘Ref cam’ system broadcasts live images from referees’ bodycams before a game, in the tunnel, during the warm-up and at the coin toss.
No live images are shown during the game, although highlights such as goals or standout moments of skill have been shown with a delay.
The footage of the challenge that led to Manchester City defender Rico Lewis being dismissed was broadcast, but the decision had already been ratified.
FIFA says the technology is designed to be purely an entertainment concept at this stage, but there may be a push for this to change in the future.
VAR replays shown in stadium
The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system has been one of the most controversial technological advancements in professional football of the past few years.
The lack of transparency over the decision-making process has been cited as a major issue for VAR, but FIFA has sought to address this at the Club World Cup.
Fans in the stadiums can see the replays the officials are being shown and the on-pitch referee will communicate VAR decisions, and the reasons for them, once they are finalised.
However, is no broadcast of the discussions in the VAR hub, which many critics believe is a crucial element in ensuring the system is totally transparent.
Semi-automated offside technology
Officials at the Club World Cup are using an accelerated semi-automated offside (SAO) technology that tells them to stop the game if a player who is more than 10 centimetres offside touches the ball.
Assistant referees receive the notification instantly rather than waiting for the technology to check positions and distances, thus negating frustrating delays.
The introduction of SAO technology will also reduce the risk of players sustaining unnecessary injuries due to officials waiting before making an obvious offside decision.
The technology was used in the Premier League for the first time on April 12, bringing it into line with major competitions such as the Champions League and Serie A.
Inclusive technology for all fans
Stadiums at the Club World Cup feature a plethora of inclusive technological innovations designed to make football accessible for every supporter.
Sensory rooms and enhanced mobile apps with live commentary and translation are among the developments which have created greater inclusivity at the tournament.
Tactile broadcast boards for visually impaired fans designed by companied in the United States and republic of Ireland are also helping to open doors for supporters.
Users know almost immediately what is happening in the game, allowing them to enjoy the same level of immersion in football as fans who are able to watch the action live.
Data & the remote viewing experience
Analytics platforms powered by artificial intelligence (AI) technology are being utilised extensively on and off the pitch at the Club World Cold Cup.
Fans can receive real-time tactical data and heatmaps via official apps and broadcast graphics on in-stadium screens or remotely via their chosen digital device.
The increased number of mobile network subscriptions worldwide highlights why football’s governing bodies are eager to adopt digital technologies.
AI not only helps to keep supporters fully informed, but is also introducing new ways of engaging with the world’s most popular sport.
