Sports technology trends are reshaping the way fans engage, athletes perform, and teams generate value. They’re driven by evolving fan expectations, a growing push for equity and sustainability, and an acceleration of technological advances.
From virtual reality (VR) to augmented reality (AR), the sports industry is using new technologies to transform both the athlete and spectator experience. For example, VR headsets can transport fans into the stadium, making them feel like they’re a part of the action. Meanwhile, AR can display real-time statistics or betting odds over the live field of play.
Moreover, AI and computer vision are enabling new types of automated video analysis, which are replacing time-consuming and often biased manual reviews. For example, an AI-based system from WSC Sports analyzed 67 000 NBA playoff games to create personalized highlight reels that aligned with individual fan preferences. The technology is also being used in the NFL, where it’s analyzing player movements and spacing to help broadcasters and analysts adjust their strategies mid-game.
Another key trend is the increasing availability of wearable devices and advanced sports data analytics, which is empowering teams and athletes at all levels to develop new skills. For example, phygital platforms like Zwift convert stationary workouts into multiplayer virtual races that combine athletic performance and gamified environments. In addition, Catapult’s Vector Core device makes advanced sports science available to semi-professional football clubs, allowing them to monitor and analyze their players’ performance at the same level as elite teams.