The FIFA Club World Cup is set to introduce a range of innovations aimed at enhancing fan engagement and boosting transparency. These changes, which include the introduction of referee cams, semi-automated offside technology, and a substitution tablet, are expected to revolutionize the viewing experience for fans.
In an unprecedented move, referees will now be equipped with body cameras during live matches. The footage from these cameras will be utilized by DAZN in their coverage. According to FIFA, one of the primary objectives behind this initiative is to assess whether this new camera angle enhances the home-viewing experience for fans.
This innovative approach offers viewers a unique perspective on the game - through the eyes of those who control it. Furthermore, fans will also have access to what referees see on their monitors during on-field reviews. This footage will be displayed live on giant screens at stadiums, providing greater insight into decision-making processes and promoting transparency.
Semi-Automated offside technology
Following successful trials at various tournaments including the FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2024 and several youth tournaments, semi-automated offside technology is set to make its debut in games. This system leverages multiple cameras along with a sensor inside the ball and AI technology.
The system tracks players' positions as well as ball movement providing real-time alerts about clear offsides situations to match officials. For complex offside scenarios though, video assistant referees (VAR) would still validate information provided by this system before making any decisions.
FIFA secretary general, Mattias Grafström, said:
“FIFA has a proud history of breaking new ground at its elite tournaments, and the FIFA Club World Cup will continue that trend. With the best clubs competing for the title of world champions, it is fitting that these trailblazing innovations will be on display at such a prestigious tournament. FIFA is always looking to improve football, and these enhancements will enable a better experience for fans, a smoother operation and an optimised set-up for refereeing decisions,” he added.
Substitution tablet
Another significant innovation being introduced is a substitution tablet that replaces traditional paperwork and manual communication methods used during substitutions. This digital tool aims at streamlining and organizing substitution processes more efficiently.
FIFA plans to use algorithms developed by Football Technology Centre AG, its joint venture with Hawk-Eye Innovations Ltd, to automatically collect the majority of live event data based on available tracking data. This move is expected to further enhance the accuracy and efficiency of data collection during matches. In a bid to make these exciting innovations accessible to all fans, FIFA Club World Cup 2025 fixtures will be live-streamed for free on DAZN.com. Additionally, Channel 5 will also broadcast a selection of games free-to-air.
These innovations mark a significant step forward in enhancing fan engagement and promoting transparency in football. As FIFA continues its journey towards innovation and improvement, fans can look forward to an even more immersive viewing experience.
