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Burnley Becomes First Club to Host Match in Virtual Reality

Burnley FC will become the first club in the world to stream a match in Virtual Reality (VR). Supporters will be able to enjoy the Premier League side’s upcoming pre-season friendly against Lazio as though they were seated inside Turf Moor, all without leaving their homes.

Partnering with VR innovators Rezzil, the Clarets are offering fans a fully immersive matchday experience using Meta Quest headsets and the Premier League Player app. From panoramic views of the pitch to live commentary and authentic stadium audio, users will be transported into a virtual Turf Moor with a single tap.

“It’s like having a seat in the stands,” said Rezzil co-founder Andy Etches. “Our technology has helped elite athletes train and now it’s giving fans a new way to experience football.”

Those tuning in will be placed inside a dedicated VR environment designed to eliminate distractions and mimic the atmosphere of a live match, complete with crowd noise and dynamic camera angles.

The club is calling it a “first-of-its-kind, immersive virtual reality broadcast,” a leap forward in how digital technology can be used to connect with supporters, particularly those far from East Lancashire.

Chairman Alan Pace praised the innovation as part of Burnley’s “forward-thinking approach to fan engagement,” adding: “This is about bringing the game closer to every supporter, no matter where they are in the world.”

The initiative is a major statement from the newly-promoted Premier League side, underscoring a commitment to tech-driven fan experiences. While other clubs have flirted with AR and interactive broadcasts, none have yet taken the leap into fully VR-based matchday presentation.

For fans looking to tune in, all that’s required is a Meta Quest headset and access to the Premier League Player platform. The friendly kicks off at 3pm this Saturday, and for the first time in football history, the best seat in the house might be in your living room.

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