What are digital twins in the context of officiating?

Digital twins are virtual 3D models of players, created by scanning their bodies and movements. They enable referees to review game moments from multiple angles, improving the accuracy of analyzing controversial situations.

How do VAR technologies assist referees?

VAR technologies, including high-resolution cameras and 3D scanning, provide detailed analysis of game moments. Referees can review incidents in slow motion and from various angles, significantly reducing the likelihood of errors.

What technologies are used to create digital twins?

Digital twins are created using arrays of cameras, 3D scanners, and computer vision algorithms. These tools capture players' movements and convert them into virtual models for in-depth analysis.

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Hardware

VAR Technologies: How 3D Scanning and Digital Twins Are Transforming Officiating

June 12, 2026

Photo: Ars Technica

Quick answer

The FIFA World Cup has implemented a VAR system utilizing digital twins of players and 3D scanning. This technology allows referees to analyze game moments from any angle, reducing officiating errors and enhancing…

At the 2024 FIFA World Cup, referees are using advanced digital twin technology for the first time to analyze game moments. The system is based on 3D scanning of each player, enabling the creation of precise virtual models of their bodies and movements. These models are integrated with data from dozens of high-resolution cameras installed in the stadium, allowing any incident to be viewed from any angle.

The technology was developed to eliminate so-called 'missed moments'—situations where referees overlook fouls or make incorrect decisions. Previously, such errors led to disputes and dissatisfaction among teams and fans. Now, referees can access detailed data in real time, significantly enhancing the objectivity of officiating.

In addition to digital twins, the system includes motion sensors and machine learning algorithms that automatically detect potentially controversial moments. Referees receive alerts about such incidents and can review them promptly. This reduces decision-making time and eases the burden on officials, allowing them to focus on key aspects of the game.

Experts note that the adoption of such technologies marks a step toward full automation of officiating in the future. However, at this stage, the system remains an auxiliary tool, with the final decision still made by humans. Nevertheless, the technology has already demonstrated high efficiency, reducing errors and increasing trust in officiating decisions.

Common questions

What are digital twins in the context of officiating?: Digital twins are virtual 3D models of players, created by scanning their bodies and movements. They enable referees to review game moments from multiple angles, improving the accuracy of analyzing controversial situations.
How do VAR technologies assist referees?: VAR technologies, including high-resolution cameras and 3D scanning, provide detailed analysis of game moments. Referees can review incidents in slow motion and from various angles, significantly reducing the likelihood of errors.
What technologies are used to create digital twins?: Digital twins are created using arrays of cameras, 3D scanners, and computer vision algorithms. These tools capture players' movements and convert them into virtual models for in-depth analysis.

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