Lenovo Becomes FIFA Technology Partner for World Cups 2026 and 2027

In a significant development for the world of football, Lenovo has officially become the technology partner for FIFA, covering both the 2026 World Cup and the 2027 Women’s World Cup. This partnership was announced during Lenovo’s Tech World innovation event held in Seattle. The collaboration aims to enhance the experience for fans and teams alike, making data more accessible and improving the overall enjoyment of the game.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed his enthusiasm for this partnership, stating, “At FIFA, we are committed to growing the game globally and making football accessible for all — and we are excited to welcome Lenovo to our journey.” This statement highlights FIFA's dedication to expanding the reach of football and ensuring that fans around the world can engage with the sport in new and exciting ways.

The upcoming 2026 World Cup is set to take place from June 11 to July 19 across 16 cities in North America, marking a historic expansion from 32 to 48 teams. Meanwhile, the 2027 Women’s World Cup will feature 32 teams, although the specific dates and host cities in Brazil are yet to be confirmed. This expansion reflects the growing popularity of football and the increasing number of nations eager to participate in these prestigious tournaments.

Lenovo’s role as a technology partner will involve supplying essential devices such as ThinkPad laptops, tablets, and Motorola mobile phones to competing teams, FIFA staff, and organizing committees. This technology will play a crucial role in analyzing match data, which has evolved significantly over the years. Previously, data was limited to basic statistics like possession percentages and shots on goal. Now, with players wearing tracking devices and chips embedded in soccer balls, teams can analyze intricate details such as offensive formations and assist referees with offside calls.

Jeff Shafer, Lenovo’s head of corporate marketing, mentioned that discussions with FIFA have focused on the potential of artificial intelligence to help teams and fans better understand the vast amounts of data generated during matches. He stated, “Technology and football will absolutely enhance the experience for viewers at a specific level.” This indicates that Lenovo is not just providing hardware but is also deeply involved in exploring innovative ways to improve the game.

Moreover, FIFA has established a six-member technical study group dedicated to analyzing data during tournaments, providing insights that can influence game strategies. Shafer emphasized that the primary goal of these technological upgrades is to assist teams and players in data analysis, which can ultimately level the playing field in global football.

Lenovo’s partnership with FIFA comes alongside other recent sponsorship announcements from major brands like Bank of America, Lays, and Verizon. Lenovo’s chairman and CEO, Yuanqing Yang, expressed pride in supporting FIFA’s vision, stating, “We’re excited that our cutting-edge technology and AI innovation will take center stage in the upcoming tournaments.” This partnership not only showcases Lenovo’s commitment to innovation but also highlights the growing intersection of technology and sports.

The collaboration between Lenovo and FIFA marks a new era in the world of football, where technology plays an increasingly vital role in enhancing the fan experience and improving team performance. As we look forward to the upcoming World Cups, it is clear that the integration of advanced technology will not only change how the game is played but also how it is experienced by millions around the globe. This partnership is a testament to the power of innovation in sports, promising a future where football is more accessible and engaging for everyone.