Drone Scoreboard Introduced During World Cup Match in Seattle
Drone Scoreboard Debuts at World Cup in Seattle
By DRONELIFE Features Editor Jim Magill
As the World Cup captivates audiences across the U.S., Seattle has introduced an innovative way for fans to engage with the tournament. The city unveiled the world’s first drone scoreboard, which displays match scores in lights, during a drone show above its iconic skyline.
Launch of the Drone Scoreboard
The drone scoreboard made its debut on June 15, coinciding with the first match of the tournament held at Lumen Field, temporarily renamed Seattle Stadium. The opening match featured Belgium and Egypt, which ended in a 1-1 tie.
Collaboration and Technical Challenges
The scoreboard display was sponsored by Visit Seattle, the city’s destination marketing organization, and was part of a larger drone show organized by SkyElements. Hayes Walsh, content director for SkyElements, noted that creating the world’s first drone scoreboard required extensive preparations.
“It’s a little bit more legwork, but we are happy to do it just to make it a fun, exciting moment when it’s lit up in the sky,” Walsh stated.
Incorporating a scoreboard into a drone show presents unique challenges, as most displays are preprogrammed well in advance. Walsh explained that the team must quickly adapt to display real-time scores, which involves close coordination among various specialist teams.
Coordination Process
- The animation team updates the 3D programming software controlling the show.
- Files are exported, which takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
- The UAV pilot then pushes the software instructions to the drones.
Walsh emphasized the technical limitations that currently prevent similar displays at other sporting venues, such as Major League Baseball stadiums, due to time constraints.
Future Matches and Scoreboard Displays
Only a small portion of the drones in the show are needed to display the final score, which is simplified by the limited scoring range in soccer matches. Walsh expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming scoreboard display following the match between the U.S. national team and Australia on June 19.
Seattle is one of 11 U.S. cities hosting World Cup matches, and the drone scoreboard is scheduled to be featured at all six matches taking place in the city.
Upcoming Matches in Seattle
- Bosnia & Herzegovina vs. Qatar on June 24
- Egypt vs. Iran on June 26
- Round of 32 match on July 1
- Round of 16 match on July 6
Visit Seattle highlighted that the scoreboard represents the city’s innovative spirit, strong sports culture, and iconic skyline as it celebrates its first-ever World Cup.