Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence, abbreviated as AI, is a much-talked-about feature that applies to almost all aspects of our lives and activities. The most basic definition, if there is any explaining AI, is the fabrication of machines equipped with enough computed data that are smart enough to think and function like a human, bringing out desired or better-than-desired results and augmenting performances. Though it does not completely explain AI, it is one interpretation of the entire concept and use.
Incorporation of Artificial Intelligence in Football
As an incredibly revered and growing sport, football has become bigger and better with time. Skillsets are reaching new heights, and records are being made only to break them. All of this is possible with the advent of technology and its application in improving efficiency. Not only are players getting one step ahead but also are team management able to churn out fortunes by revamping entire systems and ways of working and playing and making every individual top notch.
VAR, or Video Assisted Referees, is much talked about and is now used in almost every professional football match. It received mixed reviews after its use in the initial games, but at the same time has created strictness in the game by subconsciously making the players aware of it and the consequences one might face on being caught. Goal line technology is another feature determined by artificial intelligence. AI enhances the accuracy of the game and tries to bring in the factor of unbiasedness. It fills the gap where a human’s perspective fails to perceive the situation at the moment and provides the missed information aiding in maintaining the integrity of the game. The idea is to create equality and justice for each team and its players and eliminate as many possible human errors.

Not only is technology being used in sports on the field, but also used off the field in preparing players by gathering data about each of them and using it to make them better. It is being used as a SWOT analysis. Performances are upgraded by creating customised diet plans and workout regimes. Every muscle in the body is carefully examined to make it stronger and match-ready. Stamina and energy levels are boosted by targeting the right muscle groups with the required rest. All of this, only with the arrival of Artificial Intelligence. Many players are using these procedures to detect any problems in their bodies and focus on them to get healed before matches and championship seasons.

Artificial Intelligence comes at a cost.
Though much is known about the merits of incorporating artificial intelligence, one concern remains the cost of operating and maintaining these over a long period. From making the precise machines that can capture and retain the chunks of data, to testing and trials, to execution, every stage demands sufficient resources, skilled labour, and, more importantly, the proper knowledge. All of this comes at a price, and it’s massive. In a sport as intense as football, it is limitless. From league matches to world championships, every game requires the right set of instruments to produce error-free and unbiased calls. This demand has led to more or less mandatory use of higher intelligence gadgets and, thus, higher sums.

Adding the element of Curiosity
After all, artificial intelligence has added extra excitement for fans and football fanatics. Even before the football action starts, tons of stats are flowing all over the media and channels, predicting events in the future. Results are being deciphered based on past match-ups, which pulls more people towards the sport. Ticketing services have got better with timely assistance too. Gradually, the minor details are getting rectified with the support of artificial intelligence and adding to the value of the game.
Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the architecture of football stadiums
Football stadiums are getting more prominent with each passing game. The love for the game is reaching its peak. With such demand for the game, the stadiums are gradually getting bigger to house more people. This is being done keeping in mind user satisfaction. i.e. the visibility of each person in the stadium, having security and maintenance zones, executive zones, museum space tours to exhibit the past, viewing towers for fans, and, more importantly, training centres within the arena for practice sessions. So many requirements are contained under the same roof and are met by planning the right way. Today all of this is being made possible because of artificial intelligence to generate not only aesthetically but also structurally powerful designs. Viewing experiences for the spectators have just got amazing. Gigantic roof arrangements, rainwater harvesting systems under the football pitch, light and camera coordination, etc. are all controlled by artificial intelligence. The synchronisation of tons of activities is handled all by the same power.

Final Words
Artificial Intelligence is influential, and its dominance is inevitable. But at times, it also takes away the charm of the game. From paper tickets to e-tickets, the match day feel could be better. Of course, sustainability is considered, but many experiences are still altering by AI’s increased influence. The feeling is getting smoother and hassle-free for every stakeholder of the game and is aiming to get even bigger. Because, for all we know, it has just started.
References:
- Simplilearn.com. (2021). Top Advantages and Disadvantages of Artificial Intelligence. [online] Available at: https://www.simplilearn.com/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-artificial-intelligence-article#what_is_artificial_intelligence.
- www.v7labs.com. (n.d.). 7 Game-Changing AI Applications in the Sports Industry. [online] Available at: https://www.v7labs.com/blog/ai-in-sports#h1.
