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FIFA to Debut Cutting-Edge Tech at 2025 Club World Cup in the U.S.

FIFA to Debut Cutting-Edge Tech at 2025 Club World Cup in the U.S.
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, set to be hosted in the United States and featuring 32 teams, will serve as a major testing ground for new football technologies. Designed as both a premier competition and a technological laboratory, the tournament will showcase several innovations aimed at improving the future of the game on a global scale.

Among the headline features is the use of body cameras worn by referees during matches. Approved by the International Football Association Board (IFAB), these cameras will offer fans a unique, first-person perspective on officiating decisions, with footage integrated into live broadcasts. Additionally, FIFA plans to enhance transparency by displaying real-time VAR reviews on stadium screens, addressing past criticisms about a lack of clarity in VAR processes.

The tournament will also introduce an upgraded semi-automated offside system combining AI, multiple camera angles, and ball sensors to deliver quicker and more accurate offside calls. While the system leverages advanced technology, final decisions will still be verified by human officials in the video room, maintaining a balance between automation and referee oversight.

FIFA is also rolling out AI-driven match data collection for the first time at a major tournament, with support from Hawk-Eye’s Football Technology Centre. This will ensure more accurate and faster statistical insights for teams, broadcasters, and analysts. In terms of operations, digital tablets will replace manual substitution boards, streamlining matchday processes and improving clarity. These innovations reflect FIFA's commitment to leveraging technology to elevate both fan experience and refereeing standards worldwide.