Back in 2021, Tokyo was gearing up for the Olympics, social distancing was a tool used to separate rival fans at soccer grounds and zoom was a sound you might hear from Formula 1 cars. Now, immersive VR and AR fan experiences, new 3D tracking technologies and AI data analytics are driving the future of sports technology.

Athlete safety is another area undergoing major disruptions. Smart helmets such as Guardian Caps and soft-shell helmet covers are helping reduce concussions, while the consolidation of wearable devices with sports tech platforms like Firstbeat Sports is streamlining data analysis. Similarly, scouting and recruiting is getting a boost from predictive analytics tools that help hone in on top talent and identify potential problems with a player.

Enhanced fan experience and event management are other areas benefiting from technological advances. An example is the use of IoT sensors to automate stadium operations. At Germany’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium, for instance, automated parking systems rely on license plate recognition to direct drivers and allow touchless entry for pre-registered fans through biometric scanning. At entrance points, facial recognition is being piloted by companies such as Idemia to facilitate security and ticketing checks with the wave of a hand.

Adopting sports technology trends isn’t about investing in every new gadget. Instead, focus on the tools that match your space and budget. For instance, a personalised sports fan engagement app can serve tailored content to attract and retain customers, while an NFT sports collectibles platform unlocks novel micro-transactions and governance perks for fans. Lastly, an omnichannel sports tech platform can enable geofencing and other security solutions to maximize venue operation.