FIFA introduces semi-automated offside technology for Qatar World Cup

In its efforts to reduce decision making time and improve accuracy, world football body, FIFA is set to use semi-automated offside technology for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

The technology, tested at the FIFA Arab Cup and Club World Cup, will have the official match ball (Adidas Al Rihla) fitted with sensor which will send location data 500 times per seconds, matched by the players position on camera and  synchronised by 29 points on the players body to accurately tell their location on the field.

12 dedicated tracking cameras will also be mounted under the stadium roof to track the ball. Video match officials will receive offside alerts which will then be analysed manually and communicated to the on-field referee who takes the final decision.

Fans inside the stadium as well as television viewers at home will see a 3D animation displayed on their screen to see how the offside decision was reached.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said: “Semi-automated offside technology is an evolution of the VAR systems that have been implemented across the world.

“This technology is the culmination of three years of dedicated research and testing to provide the very best for the teams, players and fans who will be heading to Qatar later this year.

“FIFA is committed to harnessing technology to improve the game of football at all levels, and the use of semi-automated offside technology at the FIFA World Cup in 2022 is the clearest possible evidence.”

Chair of FIFA’s referees committee, Pierluigi Collina said: “Semi-automated offside technology is faster and more accurate and offers better communication to fans”.

The 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar will kick off on November 21 with Senegal taking on The Netherlands in the opening match of Group A.