FIFA Tests New Technology to Improve Offside and Ball-Out Decisions
FIFA is testing new technology aimed at reducing controversial decisions around offsides and whether the ball has gone out of play before a goal. The trials took place during three Intercontinental Cup matches in Qatar this month.
One of the key innovations, called “Out of Bounds”, can determine if the ball crossed the line before a goal was scored. The system uses the same tracking data already applied in semi-automated offside decisions and is designed to solve moments where camera angles are unclear.
FIFA has also expanded its Real-time 3D Recreation technology, which helps officials judge “line-of-sight” offsides more accurately. Two virtual camera feeds recreate the viewpoints of both goalkeepers and are available to VAR officials and broadcasters, making decisions easier to explain to fans.
The technology, developed with Hawk-Eye Innovations, is still in testing and has not yet been approved for domestic leagues. However, it has already shown promise. In the Intercontinental Cup final, Paris Saint-Germain’s Fabian Ruiz had a goal ruled out after the system confirmed the ball had gone out of play earlier in the move.
FIFA is also testing instant offside audio alerts for assistant referees to reduce delayed flags. The aim is to improve player safety by stopping play earlier in clear offside situations.
If approved, these innovations could significantly reduce refereeing controversies and improve transparency in football decisions worldwide.