Fifa, soccer’s world governing body, and UK-based broadcast and technology company Hawk-Eye, have partnered to establish the Football Technology Centre AG.
The new joint venture will aim to develop emerging technologies in soccer, with a particular focus on producing algorithms to automate the detection of on-pitch events for optimal decision-making.
Go deeper with GlobalData
Additionally, the partnership will involve the development of automated offside technology, which the two entities claim will instantly provide match officials with consistent and accurate information, with the aim of helping to speed up the decision-making process for offside incidents.
FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafström said: “This joint venture is just another example of the extent to which FIFA is harnessing the use of technology to optimize football operations and to play a leading role in technological developments for the benefit of our 211 member associations.
“It will have a positive impact across football as it will help to automate the provision of valuable information, facilitate decision-making processes and ultimately improve the football experience for all stakeholders.”
Rufus Hack, chief executive at Hawk-Eye, added: "Given the highly competitive nature of football and the constant evolution in the sports technology industry, Hawk-Eye continues to consider the future with a strategic approach.
US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?
Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.
By GlobalData“We’re incredibly proud to collaborate with FIFA on this joint venture, to continue creating innovative solutions that will make the beautiful game more understandable, precise, fair, and exciting for everyone at all levels of football.
“The creation of the Football Technology Centre is a natural evolution of our relationship with FIFA and will leverage technology and AI to pave the way for the future of football officiating, performance, and fan engagement.”
Both organizations have been collaborating since 2017 via the use of soccer technologies in several of FIFA's top-tier tournaments.
