Sports
FOX Sports Unveils State-of-the-Art XR Studio for Euro 24 and Copa America Coverage
FOX Sports is revolutionizing sports broadcasting once again with the introduction of a cutting-edge XR studio environment for its coverage of the Euro 24 and Copa America tournaments.
The studio, located at FOX’s Stage A in Los Angeles, features a massive 5,130 sq. ft. of LED space and is powered by advanced extended-reality (XR) multicam technology driven by Unreal Engine, Vizrt, and Stype.
In collaboration with New Zealand-based architecture firm Architecture van Brandenburg, FOX Sports has created a virtual set that offers a fully immersive 360-degree environment for viewers.
The decision to centralize studio coverage for the two major tournaments at the FOX Studio Lot in Los Angeles stems from the inspiration drawn from iconic palaces worldwide.
The studio set is designed to showcase vivid imagery, team colors, player stats, and dynamic graphics related to the cities hosting the Euro 24 and Copa America matches in Germany and the U.S.
Lead by Gary Hartley, FOX Sports’ EVP/creative director, the team is excited about the limitless possibilities offered by the state-of-the-art studio technology and innovative design.
Multiple Unreal Engines are utilized to deliver stunning AR and XR visuals, controlled seamlessly through Erizos Studio software.
With a floor area spanning 56,840 sq. ft., the XR studio includes designated segments for various production elements such as formations, halftime scores, and interviews, enhancing the overall viewer experience.
Key technologies like the Technocrane and Stype camera-tracking systems, along with Ghost Frame technology for virtual cameras, enable fluid transitions between different spaces within the expansive virtual set.
FOX Sports’ SVP, Graphic Tech and Innovation, Zac Fields, highlights the strategic blend of LED, AR, and XR technologies that distinguish this project as a game-changer in sports broadcasting.
Bolstered by years of experience and strong leadership support, FOX Sports aims to stay ahead in virtual production, paving the way for future innovation in broadcasting.