The sports industry embraces VR
Virtual reality (VR) is set to change the sports industry and football clubs join the trend. From live stream broadcasting to developing applications, several European clubs are trying to implement VR to enhance fan experience.
Tottenham Hotspur launched an interactive app, SPVRS (Stadium Project Virtual Reality Suite). By using VR (Virtual Reality) & AR (Augmented Reality) they want to bring the new stadium to life and showcase its Premium packages. When using a special tracker image (on a second device or on printed paper), the AR technology allows you to experience the new stadium with rotations to all four sides. A tap on the 360° button brings you to the middle of the pitch.
Tottenham Hotspur is not the only stadium/club to use VR in order to optimise fan engagement and experience. Manchester City FC for example offers 360° virtual reality videos, allowing fans to experience match days on a whole new level with a look behind the scenes as well.
Furthermore, in the Netherlands, several ‘Eredivisie’ clubs such as Ajax and PSV created 3D simulations to replay and analyze the game. Those clubs already have broadcasted live games in VR.
FOX Sports gives its users the opportunity to live stream games in VR via the FOX Sports VR App. For example, the UEFA Champions League final between Juventus FC and Real Madrid CF was broadcasted in VR via the app.
While, Sund, Corporate Partner of ESSMA, is successfully implementing VR and 360° videos in the Belgian sports industry. In collaboration with SV Zulte Waregem (Belgian First Division Football Club) they gave its fans the chance to live stream the game in 360°.
A benefit of VR during matches is that not only fans within the stadium can experience the 360° view and behind the scenes, but also fans outside the stadium (both local and global), creating an even larger audience.
Interesting to see how VR will change the sports and stadium industry!