The global coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has ravaged virtually every aspect of modern life. From health, education, transportation to global commerce, no sector has been immune from the devastation. However, one sector that has taken the biggest hit is the sporting industry.
All sports thrive on fan attendance but this has not been possible. In the U.S, almost all professional leagues suspended their ongoing seasons or resumption of action for the new seasons. By July, analysts projected a loss $ 2.2 billion in national TV revenue for the sports industry.
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Things are Looking Up
However, things have started looking up with the gradual resumption of some sporting action. Major leagues, including the NBA and NFL, are back in business though with stringent safety protocols. One of the emerging trends amidst the global crisis is the critical role of innovative technology.
New technology looks like the only way out for sports to finally get back on its foot despite ongoing Covid-19 restrictions. Here are some ways innovative tech could save the sports industry.
The NBA Bubble
The NBA was one of the first leagues to find a solution to league resumption through cutting-edge technology. They created a $170 million isolation zone at Walt Disney World in Bay Lake, FL.
The Disney Bubble or Orlando Bubble is an innovative solution as it offers players and personnel from the COVID-19 pandemic during the final eight games of the season. The bubble has come together through TV partnerships with ABC, TNT, ESPN, and NBA TV.
Regular COVID-19 testing inside the bubble, ‘Isolation Housing, video technology in contract tracing are some of the innovative solutions set to create the safest space for everyone in the isolation zone. The NBA and
NFL tech solutions have allowed fans across the globe to continue enjoying sports action. You can get the latest NBA, NFL, and more betting options from the best sportsbooks at ussportsbonus.com.
Next Generation Sports Equipment
As major leagues start resuming action, sporting companies are in a race to develop gear that fits these times. Already, some of the leagues have started trying prototype Oura ring-finger health trackers and new helmet-plus-mask designs.
The idea is to ensure the action continues without overlooking players’ health. The sporting world has now turned the crisis into an opportunity to innovate. Players’ safety and the need to keep them fit drives these technological adaptations to pro sports equipment.
There are innovations such as contrast-boosting tinted face shields. Other league managers have promised face shields blended with internal N95 respirator masks to block viral particles.
Getting the right team banners can also have a tremendous boost for players.
Facial Recognition Technology
Some leagues have given options for teams to allow fans in the stands. The number of fans will start growing and this might pose a risk to the local communities. This is where facial recognition technology will come in handy.
This technology will help reduce congestion at concession stands. The innovative technology can also reduce contact between fans and staff. Facial recognition technology has so far worked effectively at airports and border crossings. It eases the flow of people and can play a crucial role in reducing the risk of Covid-19 infections at stadiums.
Live Streaming
The last few months have been tough for avid sports fans. With the suspension of most professional leagues, this meant no more weekends of sporting action. Things haven’t improved even with the resumption of the season or the commencement of new seasons as fans still can’t attend matches.
Luckily, live streaming has helped to keep fans in the know. You can now watch your favorite teams play and analysts say this might now become the new way of watching sports for a long time to come.
The Future of Sports?
Without a doubt, sports post-COVID-19 will change a lot. Fans might not attend matches for a long time as stringent safety protocols continue. However, innovative technology will feature greatly in all efforts to revive the industry. This is the lifeline for the multi-billion dollar industry.