FIFA Set to Roll Out AI-Based 3D Avatars for World Cup Players

FIFA is preparing a sweeping upgrade ahead of the tournament set for June 11 to July 19 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The idea is bold but precise. Every one of the 1,248 players from 48 teams would be digitally scanned to create lifelike avatars.

The process would be quick, and players step into a scanning chamber for a single second during their official photo session. That’s it, no repeat runs, and disruptions, and FIFA says the scan captures exact body-part dimensions, building a reliable digital reference for officials during tight decisions involving semi-automated offside calls.

Offside graphics have come under pressure lately. A disputed moment earlier this season in the Premier League still lingers. A goal by Newcastle United against Manchester City stood, yet the visual showed defender Ruben Dias appearing to float mid-air. 

With AI-enabled models, officials can track players even during sprints, collisions, or blocked sightlines. Decisions would then be displayed using AI 3D avatars, football visuals that mirror reality, not distort it.

A Different World Cup Viewing Experience

FIFA quietly tested the system during its Intercontinental Cup in December. Players from Flamengo and Pyramids FC were scanned before kickoff. The data is fed directly into offside evaluations.

At the same time, FIFA is experimenting with ball-tracking tools that confirm whether play went out before a goal. Add in real-time 3D recreations for line-of-sight judgments, and the direction is clear.

For viewers, this could change how decisions land. They’ll be shown in a way that feels grounded. More clarity through semi-automated offside systems enhanced by FIFA World Cup 2026 technology.

The tournament runs from June 11 to July 19. While ticket prices start at the basic rate, organizers are already laying the groundwork to ensure everything is ready on time. Football’s biggest stage is getting a digital double, and this time, the pixels are expected to behave.