Refereeing: "The outcome of using the ref cam went beyond our expectations" (P. Collina, FIFA)

"The outcome of using the ref cam here at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 went beyond our expectations. We thought it would have been an interesting experience for TV viewers and we've received great comments. We were asked: ‘Why not in all the matches?' and even more: 'Why not in all sports?" said Pierluigi Collina (ITA), chairman of the FIFA referees' committee, on 10/07/2025.

The former international referee spoke about the refereeing innovations being introduced at the Club World Cup 2025, including the new hand-held cameras being fitted to referees at the competition for the very first time. "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," said FIFA.

"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," added Pierluigi Collina.

Eight-second countdown rule, before the end of which a goalkeeper…