LaLiga introduces FanCam camera to bring footballers closer to supporters

LaLiga has introduced FanCam, which allows players like Sevilla FC’s Youssef En-Nesyri to celebrate triumphs with fans

LaLiga viewers will be offered a closer and more personalised experience of player goal celebrations thanks to FanCam, a new locked off camera that is being installed at both ends of stadiums during matches in LaLiga 1 and 2.

While games are being played behind-closed-doors, the camera will give fans a close-up view as the players celebrate hitting the back of the net.

The camera is clearly labelled so that players know exactly where to head and where to look when they want to celebrate in front of their fans.

With the introduction of the cameras, LaLiga is also seeking to reinvigorate the passionate aspect of player celebrations, which have been slightly muted at times due to the lack of fans in stadiums.

FanCam will allow a clear, fixed shot to be broadcast as part of the world feed that fans can watch live and in full from their homes.

LaLiga will also show footage from the cameras on its social media channels, where videos of the matchday’s best goal celebrations will be shared each week.

Images will be shared with the players and clubs too so that they can use them on their own social media channels and in their other applications.

The initiative seeks to create a special bond between the players and fans and has already led to some unique and memorable goal celebrations from the last matchday.

The introduction of FanCam follows its successful use in sports broadcasts in the US. During its launch on LaLiga Santander Matchday 11, 62% of goals were celebrated in front of the FanCam and this figure is expected to rise to 100% over the coming matchdays.

Barcelona’s Lionel Messi celebrates in front of FanCam

“FanCam is another step towards improving and personalising our audiovisual product. We are going to give fans a much more personal and genuine view of the players, seeing up close how they celebrate their team’s goals,” explained Melcior Soler, director of LaLiga’s audiovisual department.

“We trust in the players to realise the importance of celebrating their goals in front of the FanCam, because this puts them in direct contact with their fans,” added Soler.

“That’s why we’re so convinced that their use of the FanCam will increase, to the point that it is used all the time.”