Explore the technology and science behind the beautiful game at Science World's upcoming exhibition, Soccer & Technology from the FIFA Museum, presented in partnership with the Province of British Columbia. This travelling exhibition will make its North American debut at Science World on May 15, 2026, as Vancouver prepares to welcome the world to the FIFA World Cup 2026™.

From the pitch to the broadcast booth, Soccer & Technology from the FIFA Museum offers a deep dive into the systems and innovations that support the modern game. Guests will explore five core sections: Broadcasting and Media, Intelligent Data, Refereeing and Fair Play, Staging the Game, and the Innovation Lab, exploring how technology enhances preparation, supports decision-making and contributes to the way matches are played, experienced and analyzed.

Innovation has long accompanied the development of soccer, supporting the game in response to changing needs and new technologies. From early adjustments to equipment and communication to today’s advanced data systems and digital tools, technology has continually supported the sport’s growth. It enhances how soccer is played, officiated, experienced, and managed—without replacing the human skill, judgment, and emotion at its heart.

Throughout the five sections of the exhibition, visitors will learn about:

• Broadcasting and Media– From the first camera to display a FIFA World Cup™ game in 1954 to today's high-speed cameras and remote-controlled drones, learn more about why live footage is the foundation for many key technologies in the beautiful game.

• Intelligent Data – Collecting and interpreting the millions of data points during a game provides additional insight into performance, supporting coaches, players, and federations to make informed decisions and opening new possibilities for performance analysis, injury prevention, fan engagement, and more. View the Connected Ball Technology in the adidas Trionda with a new layer that holds the motion sensor designed specifically for the FIFA World Cup 2026^TM.

• Refereeing and Fair Play - Referees are supported by technologies such as Video Assistant Referee (VAR), goal-line technology, and communication systems, which assist decision-making and contribute to accuracy and transparency. The exhibition features the field-side monitor used in the Referee Review Area (RRA) at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025™.

• Staging the Game - Behind every game is a network of technologies that work together to ensure the stadium is ready for action. From field management and team tools to the systems that support fan safety, comfort, and entertainment, innovation plays a crucial role in creating a great experience for all. Visitors will learn about the impact of floodlights and turf systems in supporting safety, fairness and performance across diverse climates and conditions.

• Innovation Lab – Discover what innovation means, the processes through which new ideas and technologies are developed in soccer, and the programmes FIFA supports to advance innovation. Visitors will also be invited to ‘be an innovator’ and explore their own ideas within the exhibition.

The exhibition also highlights the host nations of the FIFA World Cup 2026™, featuring objects connected to Canada’s recent international football history, including the jersey worn by Christine Sinclair during Canada’s first Olympic gold-medal-winning game against Sweden at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Also featured is the match ball from Canada’s clash with Croatia at the FIFA World Cup 2022™, in which Alphonso Davies netted the country’s first-ever men's World Cup goal and the jersey for captain Atiba Hutchinson, from Canada’s opening match against Belgium.

Soccer & Technology from the FIFA Museum opens to the public on May 15, 2026, and runs until September 7, 2026, highlighting Vancouver's role as a global centre for culture and innovation.

The Province of British Columbia is a presenting partner of Soccer & Technology from the FIFA Museum at Science World, and last year, they made a significant investment to support the development of Science World’s On the Road: The Science of Sport. This unique show has been travelling to communities across the province, showcasing the science behind some of our favourite sports through thrilling demonstrations.

QUOTES

Fiona Cole-Hamilton, Vice President, Experience & Products, Science World

“As an organization committed to making science for all, we are delighted to partner with the FIFA Museum to host an exhibition that showcases the science and technology behind the world's most popular sport at a time when soccer fans from around the world will be visiting our city. By highlighting the technology behind soccer, we hope to engage new audiences and inspire the next generation of sports technologists and innovators.”

Hon. Anne Kang, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport

“The Province is proud to be a presenting partner of this exciting exhibition at Vancouver’s iconic Science World. When we welcome the world to B.C. for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, the exhibition will give both visiting soccer fans and locals a dynamic and immersive way to explore the sport. This feature exhibition will help showcase British Columbia on the global stage and strengthen our reputation as a premier destination and tourism hub for years to come.”

Marco Fazzone, Managing Director of the FIFA Museum

“We are thrilled that Vancouver will host our exhibition's first-ever stop in North America. This exhibition offers fans a chance to see the game like never before — to discover the cutting-edge science that supports soccer for players, coaches, referees, and fans alike. There is simply no better partner than Science World to further share this fascinating story of sport and innovation.”

About Science World

Science World is a charity that provides engaging and playful STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art & design and math) learning experiences. Visitors to the iconic dome in Vancouver explore interactive, hands-on exhibits, galleries and events that nurture discovery and inspire connection with their natural, physical and built environments. Beyond the dome, outreach programs inspire students, teachers and families in every region of British Columbia through virtual and in-person visits and programs. Science World's mission is to ignite wonder and empower dreams through science and nature. And their vision is a sustainable future filled with critical thinkers, problem solvers and wonder seekers. Learn more at scienceworld.ca.