LALIGA Launches Tech Powerhouse 2026 to Explore AI and the Future of Football

LALIGA has launched Tech Powerhouse 2026, a new annual report focused on artificial intelligence, technology and innovation in football.

Developed in collaboration with sports strategy and innovation consultancy 380AMK, the report examines how emerging technologies could transform football over the next decade and how clubs and sports organisations can prepare for those changes.

The study draws on more than 50 industry and economic reports, interviews with 22 experts, comparisons between major European football leagues and research from specialists in sport and technology.

Among the major trends highlighted are agent-based AI, digital twins, smart stadiums, technological sovereignty, data control and AI-powered hyper-personalisation.

Agent-based AI could help sports organisations automate increasingly complex processes, while digital twin technology could be used to optimise player performance, manage stadium attendance and improve the overall fan experience. Smart stadiums are also expected to become more connected and intelligent environments.

LALIGA's technology strategy has been developing for more than a decade. The organisation has built its own technological solutions, expanded data sharing among clubs and integrated artificial intelligence into internal operations.

Through Sportian, its joint venture with Globant, LALIGA also commercialises sports technology solutions developed within its ecosystem. Advanced tools, data and training are made available to all 42 professional clubs.

AI is also becoming part of LALIGA's organisational transformation. According to the report, 100% of LALIGA staff have received training covering different aspects of artificial intelligence, including AI tools and the European Union's new regulatory framework.

Tech Powerhouse 2026 is planned as the first edition of an annual publication tracking how AI and emerging technologies are reshaping football and the wider sports industry.