As FIFA Club World Cup 2025™ heats up ahead of thrilling quarter-final encounters across the United States, football legend Iker Casillas delivered a standout moment off the pitch – unveiling Hisense’s monumental 116” UX TV at Dubai’s Mall of the Emirates.
Saturday’s packed event marked the finale of a 10-day football-themed roadshow by Hisense, the tournament’s official partner and TV screen provider. Widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time, Casillas brought star power to the Hisense Arena, drawing supporters eager to see both the football icon and the brand’s most advanced technological leap.
His visit included a live stage appearance, interactive fan moments and an exclusive tour of Hisense’s Dubai-based R&D Centre where he explored the brand’s next-generation innovations.
“Technology has become an essential part of how fans experience football today,” Casillas told the crowd. “Whether you’re in the stadium or at home, the quality of the viewing experience shapes how you connect with the game.
“It’s impressive to see how companies like Hisense are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.”
The newly launched 116” RGB MiniLED TV is a game-changer in home entertainment, introducing RGB 3D colour control for precise light and colour balance.
Coupled with Hisense’s most advanced AI processor and a new MiniLED backlight chip, the UX TV delivers unprecedented contrast, colour fidelity and energy efficiency. It’s a display built to replicate the thrill of the stadium right in your living room.
Casillas, who claimed 25 major honours with Real Madrid, Porto and Spain, was visibly impressed by what he saw – both at the roadshow activation and during his behind-the-scenes visit to the R&D Centre.
He said: “Seeing the innovation behind the scenes gives you a real appreciation for how much work goes into creating the technology that supports the sport. From stadium screens to home TVs, it’s all about bringing fans closer to the game.”
Casillas also reflected on the broader impact of Hisense and similar global brands, saying: “They don’t just sponsor the game, they help it grow. By supporting teams, tournaments and fan experiences they create moments that unite people through football – like this visit to Dubai.”
Alongside the UX TV, Hisense also showcased other advancements. These included the “AI Your Match” feature which uses real-time data to personalise the viewing experience based on match context and the ConnectLife smart ecosystem which integrates appliances and entertainment for a seamless connected home.
Limited edition Real Madrid products were also displayed, celebrating the brand’s ongoing partnership with the iconic club.
Jason Ou, President of Hisense Middle East and Africa, emphasised the brand’s commitment to merging sport and innovation.
He said: “We’re honoured to welcome Iker Casillas to Dubai for this special launch. At Hisense we’re passionate about connecting people with the sports they love.
“The 116” UX TV is a testament to that mission, delivering a truly immersive viewing experience that brings fans closer to every pass, goal and celebration.”
Meanwhile, FIFA Club World Cup 2025™ has continued to deliver standout performances with powerhouses from Europe, Asia and the Americas showcasing their talents on the global stage.
Shocks on the pitch in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025™ Round of 16 included Saudi Arabian giants Al Hilal beating Premier League heavyweights Manchester City 4-3 in extra time, and 2023 CONMEBOL Libertadores™ champions Fluminense eliminating 2024/25 UEFA Champions League™ finalists Internazionale via a 2-0 win.
Casillas believes that the tournament, particularly when combined with global tech collaborations, plays a vital role in growing the sport, especially in regions like the Middle East.
He said: “Tournaments like the Club World Cup give teams and players in the region a global platform. It raises the level of competition and inspires the next generation to dream bigger.”
Casillas views the Middle East as a rising force in global football.
He said: “There’s a clear commitment to excellence here – from youth development to hosting major events. I think we’re only seeing the beginning of what this region can offer.”
Hisense’s activation at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025™ showcased its unique blend of football tradition and state-of-the-art technology. Through global partnerships with tournaments like the FIFA Club World Cup™, UEFA EURO™ and Real Madrid, Hisense continues to redefine how audiences connect with the sport.
