Lenovo and FIFA have announced a series of artificial intelligence-powered technology solutions for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, which will be held in North America. The announcement was made during Tech World at CES 2026, where FIFA President Gianni Infantino joined Lenovo Chairman and CEO Yuanqing Yang to present the new initiatives.
As the Official Technology Partner for the tournament, Lenovo is responsible for providing technology infrastructure and AI-driven services to support both operational needs and fan experiences. One significant change will be the introduction of Digital Avatars into officiating technology and match broadcasts. These avatars are created using 3D assets and advanced generative AI to replicate each player’s unique physical characteristics.
Art Hu, Chief Information Officer at Lenovo & Chief Technology and Delivery Officer of Solutions and Services Group, stated: “We are working with FIFA to create the next generation of AI enabled 3D avatars, so that the world’s greatest players are represented as realistically and accurately as possible. No two footballers are the same, with the same physique or dimensions. Therefore, each player’s exact dimensions will be taken into account.”
These digital avatars were tested during the FIFA Intercontinental Cup in Qatar in December. According to Mattias Grafström, FIFA Secretary General: “AI-enabled 3D avatars mark a major step forward in how officiating technology supports accuracy and transparency. By combining precise player data with advanced visualisation, this innovation strengthens confidence in key decisions and brings fans closer to the process than ever before.”
Lenovo will also provide infrastructure support for VAR technology provider Hawk-Eye Innovations during the tournament. This follows successful implementation at last year’s FIFA Club World Cup.
With more teams playing across three countries for the first time, managing operations presents new challenges. Lenovo’s AI solutions include an Intelligent Command Center that monitors all aspects of tournament operations in real-time, generating daily summaries for officials to respond quickly if needed. Technologies such as digital twins of venues help monitor situations on-site and aid decision-making.
Additionally, Lenovo’s Smart Wayfinding system will connect cities, fan zones, landmarks, venues, and other points of interest within an interactive space using real-time venue intelligence and AI-guided navigation.
Referee body cameras—trialed previously at the FIFA Club World Cup—will return with improved image stabilization powered by Lenovo’s AI overlay technology. This enhancement aims to offer clearer footage from referees’ perspectives both for broadcast partners and fans worldwide.
Mattias Grafström commented further: “The clearer, steadier footage achieved through the new generation of Referee View can support match officials in critical moments, while giving fans a sharper, more immersive view of the game from the referee’s perspective.” Lenovo is also sponsoring Referee View content during broadcasts.
Gina Qiao, Chief Marketing Officer & Chief Strategy Officer at Lenovo said: “Being able to provide billions of fans watching FIFA World Cup 2026 a unique and dramatic viewpoint from the very center of the field is why we got into this Partnership: to change fan experiences for the better, to impact how the beautiful game is watched, engaged with and enjoyed. Fans will see players interacting with the referee and each other, as well as the biggest moments up close and personal. Lenovo is delighted to bring this exclusively to fans across the world.”
In addition to technological advancements on- and off-field, Lenovo announced several special edition devices themed around FIFA World Cup 2026 including premium laptops like ThinkPad X9-14 Gen 1 & X9-15 Gen 1; ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 & 14; business-focused ThinkBook models; Yoga Slim 7i Ultra Aura Edition; Idea Tab tablet; Legion Pro gaming laptop; and Legion Tab gaming tablet—all featuring custom tournament branding.
