The success of FIFA’s glittering new football awards was reflected through a series of ground-breaking innovations, engaging 28 million fans across the globe.

FIFA’s exciting new 360 Facebook Live broadcast stole the social show, with engaged fans consuming 76 million seconds of event coverage on the FIFA Football Awards Facebook page. Being the first sports organization in the world that used 360 Live during an event, the real-time panoramic tech captured special moments, like Diego Maradona’s reunion with the FIFA World Cup trophy.

It was the debut of a new democratic voting procedure as well. Football fans were able to vote on FIFA.com for high-profile player and coach awards, empowered with 25 per cent of the total ballot. By the time of the gala evening, 5.5 million fans had voted. Ten fans from different corners of the globe also attended the awards show, as a result of winning exclusive FIFA digital competitions.

It was also the first year for FIFA’s Instagram Story, which ran for 48 hours on @FIFAWorldCup, as we shared exclusive behind-the-scenes photos and videos throughout the day. This innovative social feature captured the excitement and build-up to the gala event.

Meanwhile on Twitter, @FIFAcom broadcasted the FIFA Legends warming up on the Home of FIFA’s ice cold, snow-surrounded pitch in Zurich through Periscope. And as the day reached its climax, fans could follow the stars arrive on the green carpet, and the show itself via FIFA on Youtube.

It was an incredible night and we shared it with millions of fans in five languages, across FIFA’s digital platforms. On behalf of FIFA, and to all fans from every country in the world, THANK YOU.