Weather Channel uses AR to illustrate how science, weather can affect World Cup

The Weather Channel has created an augmented reality explainer that showcases how weather and science will play a factor in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup games.

Featuring on-camera meteorologist Mike Bettes, the segment starts with him walking through a virtual hallway inside a stadium.

The walls of the space are decked out with colorful murals, including one that showcases a North American map showing where games will be played.

Bettes then emerges onto the stadium field, where a giant “World Soccer Championship” emblem and 3D text announcing “The Science Behind Playing in North America” appear. 

To help explain the effect altitude has on players’ bodies, the tiers of fans appear to crumble away as the field is hoisted up out of the ground to illustrate Mexico City’s 7,300-foot elevation.

Viewers are treated to explanations of the science behind how thinner air affects soccer balls and how players’ blood oxygen levels are affected by higher elevations.

The raised stadium then falls back down to ground level for multiple additional explanations on how weather will come into play during games. 

Bettes also kneels down as a ripple effect reveals the structure of hybrid pitches before standing up just in time to avoid getting soaked by virtual rain and puddles used to showcase how a wet field affects grip. 

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While Bettes explains these factors, 3D semitransparent player outlines along with virtual signage on the field are used to illustrate the various concepts.