Fans may anticipate a rush of statistics and match footage on social media when the World Cup begins in Qatar on Nov. 20. FIFA is expecting that this flurry will include information and material from a new player app. FIFA announced on Friday that all participants in the finals will have access to their performance data via a specially designed app the organization’s governing body produced that will give footballers from all 32 teams access to analysis and statistics.
The app has been created after feedback from players, through the players union FIFPRO, and the data will be synched with video of the action to allow quick assessment of key moments.
While such data and metrics are widely available to players with the top clubs and national sides, who employ teams of analysts, the app will ensure squads with fewer resources also have access.
The app will make use of input from FIFA’s performance analysts, tracking data and physical performance metrics such as distance covered, sprints and positional heat maps.
Players will also be provided with photographs from the matches which they can share on social media along with stats and data.
“This player-centric development is based on direct feedback from the players and is another great example of how FIFA is using technology to the best of its potential by improving the football experience for the key actors on the pitch,” said Johannes Holzmueller, FIFA Director of Football Technology & Innovation.
Simon Colosimo, FIFPRO Deputy General Secretary, said players had asked for better access to their performance data.
“The FIFA Player App is a positive outcome that will activate personal data rights and provide a new resource for players at the FIFA World Cup in Qatar,” he said.
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