FIFA is trialing innovative technology designed to determine whether the ball has gone out of play before a goal is scored, potentially reducing controversial incidents in top-level football. The so-called ‘Out of Bounds’ system was tested in three Intercontinental Cup matches in Qatar this month, alongside an expanded Real-Time 3D Recreation system aimed at improving offside decisions.

How the Technology Works

The new systems, developed in collaboration with Hawk-Eye Innovations, provide two virtual feeds that replicate the perspectives of both goalkeepers. These feeds are available to both the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) and television viewers, offering clearer and quicker line-of-sight judgements.

The Out of Bounds technology uses the same tracking points and configurations as FIFA’s semi-automated offside system, allowing referees to verify with precision whether a ball fully crossed the line before a goal or key pass. Meanwhile, real-time audio alerts for offsides are also being trialed to notify assistant referees instantly, reducing delays in decision-making for obvious situations.

Potential Impact on the Premier League

The Premier League has experienced numerous controversial moments that could have been resolved with these technologies.

• Two seasons ago, Joe Willock of Arsenal was deemed to have kept the ball in play before Anthony Gordon scored for Newcastle, a decision made without the necessary camera angle to confirm whether the ball had fully crossed the line.
• This season, several offside decisions have been questioned due to blocked lines of sight. For example, Eberechi Eze’s goal for Arsenal against Tottenham was controversial, with claims that Leandro Trossard obstructed Guglielmo Vicario’s view of the ball.

By providing precise ball-tracking and clear offside visuals, FIFA hopes to eliminate these uncertainties.

Testing and Safety Benefits

The Out of Bounds system remains in offline testing but demonstrated reliability during the Intercontinental Cup matches in Qatar. Notably, Paris Saint-Germain’s Fabian Ruiz had a goal ruled out via VAR because the ball had gone out of play, showcasing the technology’s potential for accuracy in real match scenarios.

Additionally, FIFA is emphasizing player safety. In May, Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi was placed in an induced coma after colliding with a goalpost during a play that continued from a clear offside. Faster offside notifications could help prevent similar injuries by allowing referees to stop play immediately in high-risk situations.

Future Prospects

While currently limited to international competitions, FIFA is exploring whether these technologies could be rolled out to domestic leagues such as the Premier League, La Liga, and Serie A. If adopted widely, fans could see fewer disputes over whether goals are valid or offside calls are correct, improving the flow and fairness of the game.

The combination of Out of Bounds technology, real-time 3D offside visuals, and immediate assistant alerts represents the next step in football’s technological evolution, balancing accuracy with the excitement of live play.