Fox Sports’ FIFA studio blends cohesively with graphics, offers flexible storytelling

In addition, the set includes a video wall installed by AV Design Services and a rolling Sony monitor unit strategically designed to enhance storytelling with player graphics, stats and other information.

The space also includes an interactive touchscreen monitor equipped with Vizrt’s Viz Libero technology. 

JHD also had to pay close attention to how to best use the limited space available in Fox’s footprint in Red Square, some of which had to be devoted to a storage area for various set pieces and the technical equipment needed to support the on-set monitors and equipment. 

The windowed wall, meanwhile, is flanked by elegant faux stone and gold columns inspired by the historic architectural elements found inside the Kremlin and other Russian buildings. The columns have been streamlined a bit but still add a unique visual and structural element on either side of the glass.

To capture the action, the studio is outfitted with multiple cameras With advanced camera tracking for smooth shots that can incorporate Vizrt’s augmented reality effects. 

Fox Sports World Cup 2018

Augmented reality is used extensively both inside and outside the studio, including eye-catching shots that add virtual elements around St. Basil’s Cathedral.

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Inside the studio, virtual “tables” can be inserted into shots with 3D recreations of fields, allowing commentators to outline plays or player position lineups.

The studio floor can also be used as a virtual canvas to insert models of the various venues across Russia being used for World Cup games — complete with stylized maps overlaid onto the real floor.

Other augmented elements include virtual country flags that can unfurl and oversized 3D lettering highlighting key gameplay stats.

Project credits

• JHD Group: Set design
• Jeff Hall, production designer
• Grant Van Zevern, art director
• Chris Mylrea, art director
• Carson Alcoser, art di®rector
• Drive Studio, network package and interior design and set design
• Marco  Bacich
• Nick DiNapoli
• Patty Kelly
• Jesse Medeiros, on set art director and decorator
• Jens Weber Design, set design liaison 
• VPT, set fabricator
• Tech by AV Design Services
• LED by Sony