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Sport is as old as time. Ancient civilizations had their best champions compete in tournaments, such as the Greek Panhellenic Games, which inspired the modern Olympics. Such ritualistic competitions mostly came down to religious demonstrations. But as centuries passed, sports became more akin to a form of entertainment. And a fiercely popular spectacle at that.
Stadiums can now accommodate tens of thousands of enthusiastic supporters, while TV broadcasts draw in millions of viewers worldwide. And digital transformation is taking the experience to the next level for both athletes and fans. So, how is technology affecting sports? Let’s dive in.
Technology’s Impact On Sports
Enhanced Stadium Experience
Nothing beats going to the stadium to watch a game live and partake in a hectic atmosphere, from fans chanting to the whole crowd exploding at every goal or point scored. And new technologies are actively changing sports stadiums to add to the experience. Several stadiums have worked hard on improving internet connectivity for a more engaging matchday, besides offering convenient phone charging stations.
With the FIFA World Cup coming fast, Qatar has also made the news for revolutionary technological changes. The Advanced Cooling Tech, for instance, will cool down the atmosphere within all Qatar stadiums. Less controversial, perhaps, the emirate is introducing the first-ever fully demountable venues.
Technology can also work wonders for a more inclusive ecosystem. While stadium accessibility has been improved for fans with disabilities, guided robots now allow hospitalized children to attend the game from their hospital room. And virtual reality makes it easier than ever for global or stay-at-home fans to join in on the fun.
Better Viewing Experience
Going to the stadium is the ultimate sports fan experience, but all supporters cannot make the trip nor afford ever-so-expensive tickets. Thankfully, technology has massively improved the viewing experience. High definition has become standard on TV sets for the average sports lover to enjoy crystal clear quality.
The sports offer has skyrocketed, from dedicated channels to analytical shows and podcasts by current or former athletes. Most broadcasts involve instant replay for viewers to understand the intricacies of the game. Some platforms even make it possible to pause a live fixture and rewind or fast-forward an action.
Professional leagues have jumped on the bandwagon, all the same, levying technology to put out passes for supporters to watch every game. Digital content is even accessible to all through technology, with platforms like Bonocle designed for the blind community.
Added In-Game Technologies
Technology can prove a powerful tool for more equity on the pitch. And football is a striking example of how technological advances can help level the playing field for all teams. The goal-line technology, for one, equips the central referee with a watch that vibrates whenever the ball crosses the goal line.
Video Assistant Referee, often shortened as VAR, is another means of checking contentious situations like fouls and potential penalties. Refcams are similarly widespread in sports like rugby, hockey, and baseball. While controversy may still arise, such technologies are stepping in the right direction.
They also ensure a fairer spectacle for fans and bettors in all parts of the world. Punters can visit top platforms like the best betting sites in Singapore, knowing the games they’re wagering on are fair and square. With fast deposits and payouts, online bookies are a convenient and secure way to place bets. Dozens of sports are available across hundreds of worldwide events. And bonuses are a click away, from free bets to loyalty rewards.
Technology Supporting Fan Engagement
Athletes may be at the heart of sports, but fans are the backbone. And new technologies are boosting the connection between supporters and their favorite teams or players.
Social media like Twitter and Instagram are notoriously fuelling direct fan-to-player interaction. Toxic behavior may be rife on such platforms. Still, countless stories tell of fans snatching a signed jersey or even pulling off a meeting with their idol after engaging with them on social media.
Blockchain technology can also give fans a say through so-called fan tokens. These purchasable crypto assets may grant their holders access to exclusive content and even the right to participate in some club decisions.
Not only is technological progress changing stadiums, but it is transforming the entire industry for all athletes, teams, and fans. And innovations will only make further headlines at the next FIFA World Cup. Thus, the technological revolution in sports is just beginning.
