By Charles Carter, 18/10/22
FC Koln and MindFly gave fans access to highlights from bodycams worn by two players during a friendly match against AC Milan in July this year.
MindFly believes the unique footage is part of the future of live football and sport in general as it puts them right at the heart of the frantic and beautiful action.
Similar footage from extreme sports athletes using GoPro cameras has been widely popular on YouTube for many years, but it has yet to be implemented in conventional sport settings.
How does it work?
Players wear a GPS-equipped vest underneath their jersey which also has integrated cameras and microphones.
MindFly’s AI automatically directs and edits the footage for instant use in replays and highlights shows.
Their solution also includes the option of access to livestreams from any bodycam via an app, although this wasn’t part of the FC Koln pilot.
FC Koln players Timo Hübers and Tim Lemperle wore the vest for the entire game and dizzying footage included Oliver Giroud’s first goal from the beaten defender’s perspective inside the box.
What are the potential benefits?
Football broadcasters have been adding new camera angles for fans to enjoy over past decades and if adopted point-of-view footage could help to increase engagement and ultimately viewing figures.
The system could also help to improve player behaviour on the pitch, setting a better example to millions of young people.
There have been no announcements from the German Bundesliga on rolling out the system, although the English FA are to trial referee bodycams at grassroots level in 2023 to improve behaviour.
Questions for you. Comment below
- First thought that comes into your head?
- Pros and cons according to you?
- Other applications of this approach?
- What could this be combined with?
