Burnley to show first ever football match in VIRTUAL REALITY: Fans offered chance to watch Lazio friendly from own home with live commentary, a panoramic view of Turf Moor and real-time stadium audio

Burnley fans will be able to take a seat at Turf Moor for this weekend’s friendly with Lazio – without leaving their own homes.

The Premier League newcomers are to become the first football club in the world to present a game in Virtual Reality, where fans can wear headsets that transport them directly to East Lancashire regardless of where they are on the planet.

In a move that some believe may revolutionise how people watch football, the Clarets have teamed up with VR experts Rezzil to present what they are calling ‘a first-of-its-kind, immersive virtual reality broadcast’ of their Saturday showdown with the Italian giants.

Those who want to take in the action but who cannot make it to the ground can don VR headsets. Ahead of kick-off they will then be given their own ‘seat’ with a panoramic view of the stadium.

The offering also includes live commentary and stadium audio in what those involved are describing as ‘a single user VR environment designed for focussed, uninterrupted viewing’ which ‘brings the energy of Turf Moor directly into homes across the globe’.

Burnley say the initiative places the club ‘at the forefront of fan engagement and digital innovation within football, showcasing the club’s commitment to embracing emerging technologies that enhance supporters’ experiences of the beautiful game’.

The Premier League newcomers are to become the first football club in the world to present a game in Virtual Reality

Chairman Alan Pace added: ‘It reflects our forward-thinking approach to fan engagement and our commitment to global supporters. Our mission is to provide the best experiences to fans, and by entering into the world of Virtual Reality, they can get closer to the game than ever before.’

Those who want to watch the 3pm kick-off in VR need a Meta Quest headset and the Premier League Player app.

‘We’re thrilled to collaborate with Burnley FC and the Premier League Player to bring fans a truly next-generation football experience,’ said Andy Etches, Rezzil co-founder.

‘Our technology has long been trusted by elite athletes to sharpen performance, and now we’re using that same technology to bring it to supporters. It’s a new way to watch football; it’s like having a seat in the stands.’