Feb 24 β€’ 16:00 UTC πŸ‡¨πŸ‡Ώ Czechia DenΓ­k N

How drones changed the Olympics and presented the future of sports broadcasts

This year's Olympics featured an unprecedented use of drones, enhancing live sports coverage while also introducing significant safety concerns.

The current Olympic Games stand out from previous ones due to the extensive use of drones, enhancing the viewing experience for audiences with exclusive aerial footage that was previously unimaginable. For instance, during ski jumping events, spectators could feel as if they were soaring through the air alongside athletes, experiencing the thrill of launch and landing in a more immersive manner than ever before. This innovation has sparked interest in how technology can reshape sports broadcasting, providing dynamic perspectives and excitement for viewers.

However, the use of drones is not without its risks. There is a considerable danger associated with their operation, particularly if there are pilot errors that can lead to catastrophic incidents. This was highlighted by a troubling incident in 2015 when a drone crashed during a World Cup event in Italy, landing dangerously close to renowned skier Marcel Hirscher. In response to past dangers, the International Ski Federation had banned drones from event sites, showing that although innovation can enhance broadcasts, it must be managed carefully to ensure safety.

Despite the risks, the demand for innovative and live footage continues to grow among viewers, pushing broadcasters at the Olympics in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo to reintegrate drones across various sporting events. To mitigate the possibility of accidents, strict regulations were imposed on drone pilots for each discipline, underlining the balance between embracing cutting-edge technology and ensuring the safety of athletes and spectators alike.

πŸ“‘ Similar Coverage