When SportsPro compiled the first list of sports technology trends back in 2021, the world was a very different place. Tokyo was preparing for the Olympics, social distancing was used to separate rival teams’ fans at soccer grounds and zoom was something you might hear at a Formula One race.
Today, augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) are fueling innovation across the sports ecosystem. As these technologies become more affordable, state-of-the-art applications are becoming accessible to teams and athletes of all sizes. This is leading to AI-powered coaching assistants making real-time game decisions, predictive models shaping sports betting and AI-generated content seamlessly integrated into live broadcasts.
Athletes also benefit from sports technology that optimizes training. Sensors and smart wearables track performance and identify weaknesses. Injury prevention gets a major boost with personalized recovery programs that reduce downtime and keep players game-ready. And cognitive training apps sharpen mental focus without adding extra stress.
Sports technology is also reshaping stadium experiences and empowering the next generation of fans. Data analytics enables teams to build robust, interconnected views of fan preferences and drive hyper-personalized engagement. This information is collected through ticket sales, contests, social media and website cookies, in-stadium sensors, and mobile and connected TV apps.
Similarly, smart stadiums are upgrading their capabilities with IoT solutions that improve security and efficiency. For example, facial recognition technologies like Idemia’s MorphoWave Compact enable touchless entry for pre-registered fans at stadiums and arenas. In addition, IoT sensors are being utilized to control lighting, HVAC, and waste management based on real-time occupancy and environmental data.