Erling Haaland (Manchester City) wears a GPS vest to measure his performances. These systems provide information on the effort exerted and physical condition.
In a few months, the 2026 FIFA World Cup will kick off. Once again, all eyes will be on the matches that are sure to captivate even the laymen. If you are among them, you might notice for the first time a small detail: a bra worn by many players under their jersey. Its function is not to support the chest or relieve the back, but rather to keep the technology in place at chest level, as explained by Stefan Fröhlich, a sports traumatology specialist and team doctor for FC Zurich.
High technology close to the skin
The bra is equipped with GPS sensors that record every movement of the player on the field. “These systems track his movements on the field, including his position during the match, his speed, maximum sprint duration, and endurance running duration,” explains Dr. Fröhlich. They also measure the player’s acceleration and braking frequency, as well as the intensity of his effort. Transmitted in real-time to coaches or analyzed after the match, the data provide a fairly accurate picture of what is happening on the field.
More effective than a smartwatch
Resembling a classic activity bracelet, such as the one you might have at home, the bras are designed specifically for football. These bras measure both physical condition-related data and more complex movements such as changes of direction or sprints. “However, they offer a higher level of precision than smartwatches, allowing for further exploitation of the data by the coach,” explains the sports doctor. These are decisive factors in high-level football. “When two teams are evenly matched in terms of technique, the one that excels in the maximum sprint zone is often the one that wins.”
If you play amateur football, you can perfectly do without this gadget. “For most amateur athletes playing team sports, this level of physical detail is not necessary,” explains Stefan Fröhlich. For him, a watch or a smart bracelet is generally sufficient for practicing endurance sports (running, cycling, or cross-country skiing).
A useful tool for coaches
For coaches, this data is valuable. It allows them to tailor training to each player. “For players with high potential but measurable physical deficiencies, physical trainers can intervene to bring out the best in them.” Football is much more physical today than it was 20 or 30 years ago. “Formerly, a player with certain physical deficiencies could compensate for them with his technique or tactical sense. Today, professionals operate at such a high level that no position can afford such weaknesses,” notes the doctor.
Bras are also worn by hockey players
Tracking systems are not exclusive to football clubs. “They are used in all high-level team sports, where physical condition plays a crucial role,” explains Stefan Fröhlich. This is particularly the case in ice hockey or American football. “The more intense the effort required and the higher the stakes, the more this kind of technology is used. Football is the perfect example,” he adds.
The GPS-equipped bras are now essential in the modern football world. However useful these tools may be, they have their limits. As Dr. Fröhlich explains, “Some coaches rely heavily on the data, while others rely more on their intuition. Players gifted and creative in technical terms but whose physical data are less impressive have less chance with the former. Thanks to other qualities, however, they could still be a major asset for the team.” For now, team spirit, intuition, and game sense remain beyond quantitative measurement.
