2025 FIFA Club World Cup: Referees’ body cams went beyond our expectations- Pierluigi Collina

•    FIFA received “great comments” for the body cams, says Mr Collina
•    Tempo of the games greatly improved by new eight-second rule for goalkeepers
•    Advanced semi-automated offside technology also went well.

Pierluigi Collina, the Chairman of the FIFA Referees Committee, says that he is very happy with the refereeing innovations introduced at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025™, including body cameras for referees, advanced semi-automated offside technology and the new eight-second rule aimed at cutting down time-wasting by goalkeepers.

The inaugural edition of the new 32-team tournament was the first FIFA competition to feature body cams and Mr Collina said they have received a positive reception. The trial aimed to explore whether the new camera angle can improve the experience for those watching on television and online by showcasing the referee’s perspective.
correct decisions supported by the semi-automatic offside technology – [we are] very happy, very pleased,” Mr Collina said.

A total of 117 match officials – 35 referees, 58 assistant referees and 24 video match officials – from 41 member associations were appointed to take charge of the 63 matches during the tournament. “It was a great competition. The people attending the matches confirm this, it was well played by players and well refereed by match officials. And all the referees who are here are 100% proud of being part, of having been part of this first time ever,” Mr Collina concluded.