3D World Cup coverage in doubt following ESPN channel closure
Plans to broadcast next summer’s FIFA World Cup in 3D are in disarray following the decision by sports broadcaster ESPN to close its only 3D channel.
FIFA had planned to utilise3D technology at the upcoming event but without a platform to broadcast the footage those plans look to be in doubt.
Niclas Ericson, FIFA’s director of television, said: “We know that the technology has had a few setbacks in recent days, if you refer to some of the statements by (ESPN).
"It's clear when a big sports broadcaster like ESPN makes an announcement like that it creates a lot of extra tension (for the technology).
"We are still reviewing whether we should do 3D for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, the number of matches."
The 2010 World Cup was the first tournament to feature 3D broadcasts with 25 of 64 matches screened in the format but enthusiasm for the format has waned in recent years.