For the first time in the history of FIFA tournaments, referees at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup (FWC), set to take place in the United States, will be equipped with body cameras.
This groundbreaking innovation is designed to offer fans a unique, first-person perspective of the game and shed new light on the decision-making process on the field.
The referees’ body cameras will capture real-time footage of the action from their vantage point, providing an intimate view rarely seen before.
Selected clips from these cameras will be broadcast live during matches, giving audiences an immersive experience that goes beyond traditional coverage.
In addition to the body cameras, the tournament will also feature an advanced semi-automated offside detection system. Utilizing cutting-edge artificial intelligence, multiple camera angles, and ball sensor technology, this system aims to speed up the offside decision process, reducing delays and improving accuracy.
Despite the enhanced technology, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) will remain a crucial part of the process, reviewing and validating calls—especially the most marginal ones—to ensure fairness.
Beyond improving live broadcasts, the referee body cameras will also serve as valuable tools for coaching staff and post-match debriefings, providing a clear perspective of refereeing decisions to help teams prepare better and understand critical moments.
This move marks a significant step forward in football officiating, blending technology and transparency to enhance the viewing experience and uphold the integrity of the game.
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup promises to be a showcase not only for world-class football but also for pioneering technological advancements in sports officiating.
The FIFA Club World Cup tournament has been extended to 24 teams with participating clubsides drawn from different leagues across all continents.
The new FWC will kick start on June 12th 2025 in the United States of America.