Lenovo to bring tech innovation to FIFA’s upcoming World Cup
Lenovo has officially signed on as the technology partner for FIFA. This partnership covers both the 2026 World Cup, set to be held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, as well as the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil. This collaboration aims to transform the sport through technology and data, revolutionising the fan experience, and helping teams perform at their very best.
Lenovo’s official partnership with FIFA
The exciting announcement was made during Lenovo’s Tech World innovation event in Seattle. Lenovo is no stranger to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with technology, and now, they’re set to do the same for the world’s most popular sport. One of the standout features of this partnership is how data will be made more accessible to both fans and teams.
Jeff Shafer, Lenovo’s head of corporate marketing, hinted at groundbreaking innovations that are still in development, particularly in using artificial intelligence (AI) to improve the game for both players and fans. Shafer said, “Technology and football will absolutely enhance the experience for viewers at a specific level. That’s stuff that we’re working on right now. But we already, I think, have some amazing and interesting ideas brewing.”
FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised the partnership, stating that this collaboration will help grow football globally and make it more accessible to everyone. He also highlighted how Lenovo’s technology would help FIFA push football’s boundaries. Infantino stated, “At FIFA, we are committed to growing the game globally and making football accessible for all and we are excited to welcome Lenovo to our journey, and to work with them to implement technologies, innovations and programmes that spread our sport. Data and technology combined helps us to know fans better.”
Lenovo’s role in supporting the FIFA world cups
Lenovo will be providing top-of-the-line ThinkPad laptops, tablets, and Motorola mobile phones to all participating teams, as well as FIFA staff. These devices will be essential in data analysis, team communication, and performance tracking throughout the tournament. Lenovo’s technology also enhances refereeing by providing more accurate data for decisions, especially in contentious calls like offsides or handball situations. Referees will have access to better, more precise information, ensuring fairer and more accurate officiating.
By providing access to cutting-edge technology, Lenovo hopes to contribute to the development of football globally, giving teams at all levels the tools they need to improve.
Overview of the world cups
The 2026 World Cup is going to be massive. For the first time, the tournament will expand from 32 to 48 teams. This means more matches, more excitement, and more data to analyse. With Lenovo’s involvement, expect technology to play a big role in managing this expansion, from logistics to performance tracking. The tournament will take place from 11 June through 19 July 2026, across 16 cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
While the specifics for the 2027 Women’s World Cup haven’t been finalised, it’s confirmed that 32 teams will compete. The tournament in Brazil is highly anticipated, and with Lenovo as the tech partner, expect a similar level of innovation and tech-driven enhancements as seen in the 2026 World Cup.
