# World Cup 2026's Lasting Tech Legacy From AI referees to anti-drone systems, the tournament's innovations - **Source:** [Fast Company](https://www.fastcompany.com) - **Published:** 2026-07-18 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/fe450dc0-0a2d-422f-98c9-b7bc40d33a12 ## The World Cup as Tech Laboratory The 2026 World Cup served as a massive testing ground for innovations ranging from AI-assisted refereeing to drone defense systems. These technologies were developed not just for football, but for all major live events worldwide. ## AI Referees Take the Field AI-powered offside and foul detection systems minimized controversial calls during matches. Their success signals similar technologies will be adopted across other sports in the near future. ## Countering the Drone Threat Advanced anti-drone technologies set new security standards for stadiums. These systems detect and neutralize unauthorized drones, preventing potential safety threats during matches. ## Ticketing System Revolution Blockchain-based ticketing reduced fraud while enhancing fan experience. Smart ticket apps transformed revenue models by offering personalized event recommendations to attendees. ## Venue-Specific Design Innovations Each stadium featured unique architectural and technological solutions tailored to local needs. This approach established sustainable, context-aware design standards for future mega-events. ## A New Era for Event Technology Technologies tested at the 2026 World Cup mark a turning point not just for sports but for concerts and other large events. These innovations will permanently transform audience experience and safety standards. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.fastcompany.com/91575129/the-world-cup-tech-innovations-that-will-outlast-the-tournament — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._