The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) is utilizing robotic patrol dogs from Boston Dynamics during the 2026 World Cup to secure stadiums. Both the company and the federation confirmed that these robots do not possess facial scanning or recognition capabilities, contrary to reports circulating online.
اضافة اعلان
With the kickoff of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, Hyundai Motor Company has launched its largest-ever mobility and robotics project for a global sporting event.
The company has deployed more than 1,500 advanced vehicles and robots to support logistics, security, and facility management across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, according to a report by Interesting Engineering—a website specializing in technology and innovation news—as reviewed by Al Arabiya Business.
This project demonstrates how robotics and autonomous technologies are becoming increasingly commonplace at major mass-attendance events.
Leading these efforts are four "Spot" robot dogs developed by Boston Dynamics, a subsidiary of the Hyundai Motor Group.
These robot dogs are operating at two primary tournament locations, with deployment centered at the International Broadcast Centre in Dallas, as well as stadiums in New York and New Jersey, according to Hyundai.
The robots are capable of navigating crowded and complex spaces autonomously while performing various tasks. Hyundai stated that the "Spot" robots will conduct patrols, perform real-time inspections, and assist in monitoring areas where large crowds are expected during the tournament.
This marks the first time "Spot" robot dogs have been used at a World Cup, representing a significant milestone for Hyundai as FIFA's official robotics partner.
The company views the tournament as an opportunity to demonstrate how robots can assist stadium staff and security teams in managing large crowds and complex event logistics.
Industrial robots have long been utilized in factories where conditions are structured and predictable; however, event venues are far more complex and dynamic.
World Cup stadiums and broadcast centers will welcome thousands of visitors, staff, and media personnel, creating bustling environments that require the robots to navigate around people, obstacles, and continuous activities.
The tournament serves as a real-world test for autonomous technology in venues where safety, reliability, and continuous surveillance are of paramount importance. Experts view this as a foundational step toward introducing robotics into new roles outside conventional factory settings.
This initiative is part of a broader trend, as an increasing number of technology companies seek practical ways to implement autonomous systems in public spaces.
Source: Al Arabiya
