NTT to Remotely Officiate Rugby Matches Using IOWN Network in 2026
NTT, NTT Docomo Business, and Japan Rugby League One will implement a remote television match official (TMO) system for the League One 2025-26 playoff final in Tokyo. This system utilizes NTT's IOWN networking technology to allow video review officials to operate remotely from a location outside the stadium. The initiative demonstrates advancements in remote production capabilities for live sports broadcasting.
Key Takeaways
- NTT and partners will deploy a remote TMO system for Japan Rugby League One's 2025-26 playoff final.
- The system will use NTT's IOWN networking technology to link the stadium and a remote officiating location.
- TMO officials will operate from Otemachi Place in central Tokyo, not the National Stadium.
- The remote setup will be in place for the June 7 final.
Why It Matters
The implementation of remote video officiating for a major rugby final highlights the growing feasibility of distributed live production workflows. This move reduces the need for on-site personnel and infrastructure, potentially lowering production costs and increasing operational flexibility for broadcasters and sports leagues. As networking technologies advance, expect to see more critical broadcast functions moved off-site, paving the way for fully virtualized control rooms. Watch for similar announcements from other sports leagues and broadcasters testing IOWN or comparable high-bandwidth, low-latency networks for remote operations.
Read full article at telecompaper.com
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