FIFA uses technology to help improve the pace of the game and allows referees to make better calls. Football is a fast paced game and referees find it difficult to make the right call at times. FIFA’s uses technology to improve the game by providing referees and fans with precise data so they are able to make better calls.
Semi-automated offside technology
FIFA is able to achieve this feat through the use of artificial intelligence. FIFA’s Artificial intelligence offside technology system tracks players movements on the field and provides umpires with accurate data. 12 mounted cameras are used to track the position of the ball and each individual player. The cameras capture 29 datapoints 50 times a second. This makes it possible to track the exact position of every player on the field. A sensor tracks the position of the ball 500 times a second. The Data collected provides a neural network the appropriate data to make on the fly offside calls during the game.
Goal-line technology
Firstly goal-line technology used by FIFA also uses multiple cameras to generate a 3D model of the ball. This allows umpires to check if the ball has fully crossed the line. 14 high speed cameras mounted around the goal. The system provides multiple angles of views of the ball. The data enables a 3D model to be generated. The 3D model is accessible to referees via a smart watch. This technology makes it easier for umpires to make calls on the go without having to resort to video replay keeping the game more fast paced.
Video Assistant Referee
Video Assistant Referee (VAR) is a video system that is used to help referees make the right decision in challenging situations. VAR is able to provide accurate information about players and the ball. Referees can use VAR to assist them in making better calls for situations such as goals, penalty decisions, red card incidents and other violations.
Finally, in short FIFA technology is making the game more fair. Helping maintain the fast pace gameplay by enabling referees quick access to accurate data.
Read more about FIFA technology on FIFA’s website https://www.fifa.com/technical