FIFA Launch New Goal-Line Tech Tests After Spurs Gaffe

May 4, 2011

World soccer’s governing body FIFA revealed yesterday, May 3, that a new set of tests for goal-line technology were underway, with the prospect of a system possibly being introduced in time for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

FIFA has invited manufacturers to take part in a two-stage technical testing process between September 2011 and March 2012, which will be verified by an independent technical institute. As of now, around 10 different goal-line technology systems have been tested though all have failed to convince the International Football Association Board (IFAB), and FIFA so far.

FIFA released a statement reading: “The final results of this evaluation will be presented to the IFAB at a special meeting in July 2012. The tests will be conducted in two phases at a football stadium selected by the respective technology providers, in consultation with FIFA.”

The first phase of tests between September and December 2011 will check the success of the required goalscoring indicator, which will be linked to a bracelet worn by the referee. Shortlisted systems, which are at least 90 per cent successful, will then progress to the second phase, where FIFA will be looking for 100 per cent accuracy in tests involving different types of shots on goal under simulated match conditions.

The IFAB, which is made up of FIFA and the Football Associations (FA) of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, decided in March to look at technological aids for referees again.

The recent tests have seemingly been forced into action after another high profile decision which eventually saw Premier League champions Chelsea defeat Tottenham due to an incorrect award of a goal. FIFA have been consistently criticised for a lack of action to ensure that the correct decision in terms of whether a ball has crossed the goal-line is made, with many feeling that the technology is readily available and used in a growing number of sports.