Josh Noble Probes VAR, Gambling and Gimmicks in Sports Fandom
Updated
Updated · Financial Times · Jul 8
Josh Noble Probes VAR, Gambling and Gimmicks in Sports Fandom
1 articles · Updated · Financial Times · Jul 8
Summary
FT sports editor Josh Noble examines whether technology is making sport more entertaining or diluting the fan experience, focusing on tools and formats now reshaping how audiences watch.
VAR sits at the center of that debate, described as one of the most controversial technologies introduced in sport and a symbol of how innovation can overshadow the event itself.
Noble broadens the lens beyond officiating to data-driven gambling and broadcasting gimmicks, arguing that tech is changing not just matches but what it means to be a fan.
The discussion appears in the latest season of FT podcast Tech Tonic, framing sports fandom as the newest arena where convenience, engagement and authenticity are colliding.