FINANCE & SPEND
By coordinating with national border agencies years in advance, procurement teams have secured the movement of critical goods, ensuring that the 104-match schedule remains disruptionproof regardless of geographical distance.
Modular thinking, temporary delivery A major part of the 2026 operation will rely on temporary and modular infrastructure rather than permanent construction.
HOW THE BEAUTIFUL GAME IS WATCHED, ENGAGED WITH AND ENJOYED
As the Official Technology Partner, Lenovo is providing the hardware and AIdriven solutions required to manage the scale of 104 matches across North America. Central to this digital procurement is an Intelligent Command Centre that uses real-time analytics and digital twins of venues to optimise tournament operations and fan flow.
The innovation extends to the pitch through 3D Digital Avatars, which support Semi-Automated Offside Technology by reflecting the exact physical dimensions of players. Arthur Hu, Lenovo CIO, said:“ 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.”
Fans will also experience Referee View cameras featuring AI-driven stabilisation. Gina Qiao, Lenovo CMO, explains:“ Being able to provide billions of fans watching FIFA World Cup 2026 a unique and dramatic viewpoint from the very centre 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.”
62 June 2026