Referee body-cameras could feature at 2026 World Cup after green light from IFAB
The aim of the cameras trial was to see whether it would enrich the viewing experience by providing footage from the referee's perspective.
The IFAB approves extension of trial with referee body cameras at professional level
➡️ News release: https://t.co/ZWzxpczxvu pic.twitter.com/BdO1RXLp5G
— The IFAB (@TheIFAB) July 30, 2025
Pierluigi Collina, the chairman of FIFA's referees committee, hailed the success of the cameras and said the trial had gone 'beyond expectations'.
It therefore seems extremely likely world football's governing body will want to use the cameras in its showpiece national-team tournament next summer.
'We thought it would have been an interesting experience for TV viewers and we've received great comments,' Collina told fifa.com earlier this month.
'We were asked, 'Why not in all the matches?' and even more, 'Why not in all sports?'
🎥 The best ref cam moments of the #FIFACWC so far… pic.twitter.com/3xZJsaqZDv
— FIFA Club World Cup (@FIFACWC) June 27, 2025
'We had the possibility to see what the referee sees on the field of play. And this was not only for entertainment purposes, but also for coaching the referees (and) to explain why something was not seen on the field of play.'
The cameras highlighted how a handball by an Atletico Madrid defender in their match against Paris St Germain could not be given onfield by the referee because his line of vision was blocked, with the VAR able to alert the on-field official.
In the meantime, other competitions around the world can now adopt this innovation, including domestic leagues.
Competitions wishing to participate in the extended trial will need to seek permission from the IFAB and from FIFA, who will provide detailed recommendations and technical information to help them use the technology effectively.
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