Groundbreakers Challenge

Esports

Problem Statement

During esports events, how can we to enrich the viewer’s experience (both in the stadium and over broadcast) by showcasing the pressure and high-performance situations of an esports player on the biggest stage? What technologies and solutions can we leverage to capture and present new data to build a better picture of what each player is feeling, in non-intrusive, accessible way?

Know more about this Problem Statement in the FIFA Innovation Programme

Expansion of the Fan Engagement Ecosystem

Problem Statement

A major European club with a strong global following seeks to further evolve its digital fan‑engagement ecosystem through immersive platforms, personalized content, and seamless multi‑device experiences. Recent initiatives include expanding a 360º digital environment that integrates OTT streaming, AI‑enhanced historical archives, mobile services, and unified digital identity systems to create deeper, more interactive connections with supporters worldwide. The organization aims to continue exploring cutting‑edge technologies that elevate engagement and deliver a richer, more connected fan experience.

Technology-driven Injury Prevention

Problem Statement

A leading professional football organization is actively working to enhance its injury‑prevention capabilities through advanced data analytics, performance monitoring, and predictive modeling. Previous seasons showed that player absences due to injuries could represent up to 15% of total matches, translating into significant financial and sporting impact. This challenge highlights the need for innovative solutions that can identify risk patterns earlier, optimize training loads, and support medical teams with smarter decision‑making tools.

Digital Engagement

Problem Statement

While table tennis has a massive global participation base, converting casual audiences into engaged digital fans remains a challenge. Younger audiences demand immersive, interactive, and personalized experiences that go beyond traditional broadcast formats.

Challenge

How might WTT create deeper emotional connections and sustained engagement with global fans by leveraging digital innovation?

Opportunity areas include:

• Interactive viewing experiences
• Gamification and second-screen participation
• Creator-driven or community-led engagement models
• Personalization through data and AI
• Hybrid physical-digital fan ecosystems

Solutions should help transform passive viewers into active participants in the sport’s ecosystem.

Growing the Soccer market in the U.S.

Problem Statement

Soccer participation and interest in the United States are increasing, yet the sport faces structural, cultural, and accessibility barriers that limit long-term growth, talent pipeline development, and fan conversion relative to other major sports.

Challenge

How might U.S. Soccer accelerate nationwide growth of the sport by expanding access, engagement, and development pathways across diverse communities?

Areas of exploration may include:

• Technology-enabled grassroots participation models
• Talent identification and development tools
• Community engagement platforms
• Inclusive access solutions addressing cost, geography, or infrastructure
• Data-driven fan conversion strategies

The objective is to strengthen soccer’s position as a mainstream and accessible sport across the country.