The National Hockey League (NHL) has revamped its media storage and distribution systems through a multi-year partnership with VAST Data. The initiative replaces legacy archives and in-arena storage, enabling faster, more efficient media workflows and paving the way for advanced analytics. This modernisation is expected to enhance fan experiences and streamline media operations across the league.
The NBA is set to deploy an AI-driven system to handle out-of-bounds calls, aiming to improve officiating accuracy and reduce game delays. The technology uses cameras and machine learning to determine ball possession automatically, mirroring systems in use in tennis and football. Human referees will continue to oversee judgment-based decisions, such as fouls.
Ferrari has partnered with IBM to leverage artificial intelligence for enhancing its Formula 1 fan experience. This collaboration aims to better understand and engage audiences through advanced AI-driven insights and personalized content.
Sony AI’s table tennis robot, Ace, has defeated high-level human players in regulated matches, showcasing advances in AI-driven robotics. Separately, a humanoid robot completed a half marathon in Beijing faster than the men's world record, highlighting rapid progress in real-world robotic capabilities.
FIFA is directly managing World Cup 2026 operations across Canada, Mexico, and the United States using advanced AI solutions, debuting enterprise tools like Football AI Pro and AI-powered referee cameras. The shift marks a structural change in football event management, aiming to enhance transparency, analysis, and coordination on a global scale.
Researchers at MIT have developed OOFSkate, an AI-driven optical tracking system to help elite figure skaters refine jumps and improve scoring. The system enables athletes and coaches to evaluate performance metrics and offers possible explanations for judging decisions. Ongoing research is also exploring how AI can be used to assess the artistic components of figure skating.
Runeasi, a KU Leuven spin-off specialised in AI-driven running analysis, has secured €1 million in seed funding to accelerate global growth. The investment will be used to expand the company’s AI-powered motion sensor platform internationally, particularly in the United States, while maintaining its presence in Belgium.
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