GOAL-LINE TECHNOLOGY - Football Technology - … technology 6 1.1 Origins 6 ... The implementation of goal-line technology in football ... following further development and more experience

GOAL-LINE TECHNOLOGY

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR IMPLEMENTATION IN COMPETITIONS

1Table of contents

Table of contents

Foreword 3

Executive summary 4

1. Goal-line technology 6

1.1 Origins 6

1.2 Challenges for the referee 7

1.3 Developments since 2012 8

1.4 Laws of the Game 8

1.5 FIFA Quality Programme 11

2. Implementation of goal-line technology 14

2.1 Pre-planning 14

2.2 Bidding procedure 15

2.3 Concluding a contract 17

2.4 Installation period 18

2.5 Final installation test and acceptance of the installation 20

2.6 Training of referees 23

2.7 Competitions 24

2.8 Replays of GLT incidents 27

2.9 Use of GLT in competitions 2012-2014 28

3. Questions and answers 30

3.1 Use of GLT in leagues and competitions 30

3.2 Refereeing 30

3.3 Licensingandcertification 31

3.4 Replays on TV and on LED screens in the stadium 32

3Foreword

As guardians of the game, FIFA serves and supports the world of football.

Our mission is to protect its spirit and values, upholding them in the best

way we can. We must embrace change and adapt to the needs and

challenges of the modern game.

Technological aids can help us to meet these challenges, rendering

football more transparent and credible, improving the footballing

experienceforplayers,matchofficialsandfans,andmakingthegame

fairer for all.

Goal-line technology (GLT) is one such aid, the use of which was

approved by The International Football Association Board (The IFAB) in

July 2012 following positive results from an extensive testing of several

different technologies. Since its introduction, GLT has been successfully

implemented at four FIFA events: the FIFA Club World Cups 2012 and

2013, the FIFA Confederations Cup 2013 and most recently on the

biggest stage of all, the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™.

A camera-based system was a success in all 64 matches. Besides being

decisive in the awarding of a goal during the match between France and

Honduras,itassistedthematchofficialsinmakingclosecallsonseveral

further occasions.

The success of GLT in Brazil is something we are proud of and I strongly

believethateverynationalleagueandtournamentcouldbenefitfromthe

technology.Restassured,thisisjustabuildingblockandwewillalways

belookingtoimprovewhatwedoandhowwedoitsothatfootball

continues to have the strongest of foundations.

For the Game. For the World.

JérômeValcke

Secretary General

“The success of GLT

in Brazil is something

we are proud of and I

strongly believe that

every national league

and tournament could

benefit from the

technology.”

4 Executive summary

This document serves both as a support for the

implementation of goal-line technology (GLT) in football

competitions and as a comprehensive guide to its

development in recent years. It is therefore aimed mainly

at competition organisers along with any other party

affected by the implementation of goal-line technology.

The recommendations are based on the test phases from

2010 to 2012, FIFA’s GLT Testing Manual 2014 and previous

editions and practical experience gained from the use of

goal-line technology at the 2014 FIFA World Cup™, the FIFA

Confederations Cup 2013 as well as the FIFA Club World

Cups 2012 and 2013. Additional experience from other

competition organisers has been included where available.

The implementation of goal-line technology in football

is based on a four-step procedure for the licensing and

certificationofGLTsystemsandinstallations.Inaddition,the

finalcheckoftheinstalledGLTsystembytherefereebefore

each match completes the quality assurance programme for

goal-line technology.

Thisprocessreflectsthestructureofthisguide,themain

focus of which is on steps three and four of the

above-mentionedlicensingandcertificationprocess,in

which the competition organiser is directly involved. The

experience gained from previous FIFA tournaments is also

included, so that readers will obtain a detailed overview of

thevariouschallengesinvolvedinfulfillingtherequirements

ofacertifiedinstalledGLTsystem.Thethreemainchapters

of this document are therefore structured as follows:

Thefirstchapterprovidesanoverviewofthedevelopment

process of goal-line technology in recent years, The IFAB’s

decision on 5 July 2012 and its subsequent integration into

the Laws of the Game and an explanation of the FIFA Quality

Programme for Goal-Line Technology (including steps one

andtwoofthelicensingandcertificationprocess),together

withtheobligatoryrefereecheckbeforeeachofficialmatch.

The second focuses on steps three and four of the licensing

andcertificationprocessbasedonexperiencefromFIFA

events during the 2012-2014 period. Each section in this

chapter contains general information, experience from FIFA

tournamentsandachecklist.Thelatterservesasaguide

toobtainingacertifiedinstalledGLTsystemandshould

therefore be completed by the competition organiser.

Thefinalchapterprovidesanswerstothemostfrequently

askedquestionsongoal-linetechnologyandits

implementation process. If you have any further questions or

individual requirements, please contact FIFA

([email protected]).

Executive summary

Figure 1: licensing procedure and certification process

APPLICANT FIFA FIFALICENSEE

LICENSING PROCEDURE CERTIFICATION PROCESS

REGISTRATION ON FIFA.COM/

QUALITY

ACCEPTANCEOF THE

INSTALLATION

POSITIVE FINALINSTALLATION

TEST

INSTALLATIONFIFALICENCE

AGREEMENT

POSITIVEGLT SYSTEM

TEST

APPLICATION




QUALITY

ACCEPTANCEOF THE

INSTALLATION


TEST


AGREEMENT

POSITIVEGLT SYSTEM

TEST

APPLICATION

5Executive summary

The following four icons will guide you through the

document and should simplify understanding of the

licensingandparticularlythecertificationprocedureof

goal-line technology systems.

GLT system test

FIFA licence agreement

installation and testing

registrationonwww.fifa.com/quality

“The IFAB’s decision did not oblige anybody to use goal-line technology. Instead, organisers of leagues and competitions around the world will be able to choose themselves whether or not they wish to install the system.”(FIFA Secretary General Jérôme Valcke, IFAB press conference, 5 July 2012)

While every effort has been made toensure the accuracy of the information and recommendations contained in this document, any party that makes use of any part of this document for the implementation of goal-line technology (“User”) does so at its own risk and FIFA shall have no liability with regard to such use. Any use of this document constitutes acceptance of the terms and conditions of this disclaimer by such User. FIFA may update this document at any time as it deems fit.

6 1. Goal-line technology

1.1 Origins

At its Annual Business Meeting on 20 October 2010, The

IFAB discussed the implications of measurement systems that

are capable of automatically detecting the scoring of a goal

during a football match (so-called goal-line technology or

GLT). Consequently, the IFAB laid down a set of four basic

requirementsaGLTsystemhastofulfil:

• The goal-line technology applies solely to the goal line and

only to determine whether a goal has been scored or not;

• The GLT system must be accurate;

• The indication of whether a goal has been scored must

beimmediateandautomaticallyconfirmedwithinone

second; and

• The indication of whether a goal has been scored will be

communicatedonlytothematchofficials(viathereferee’s

watch, by vibration and visual signal).

After extensive tests carried out in several phases by

independent test institute EMPA (the Swiss Federal

Laboratories for Materials Sciences and Technology) at the

request of FIFA in 2011 and 2012, The IFAB decided to allow

1. Goal-line technology

“… but goal-line technology would have made it 2-2 todayandgivenustheconfidenceandbeliefthatwecould beat the Germans.”(England player Steven Gerrard following the Germany v. England match, 27 June 2010, Daily Telegraph)

Test at the Home of FIFA in Zurich (2010)

Test at Wembley Stadium in London


the use of goal-line technology on 5 July 2012, providing the

newly established test criteria were met.

1.2 Challenges for the referee

The objective of goal-line technology is not to replace the

roleoftheofficials,butrathertosupportthemintheir

decision-makingduetothespeedofthegameandtheir

positiononthefieldofplay.

One of the challenges for referees is that the human eye

can handle only approximately 16 images per second, which

means the ball needs to be behind the line for at least 60

milliseconds. However, in some cases the ball is only behind

thelineforafewmillisecondsbeforeaplayerkicksitback

oritreboundsbackintothefieldofplay,withtheresult

that the human eye cannot see whether the ball has crossed

the line. The ball can only be detected by the human eye at

aspeedof12km/horless,whereasnowadaysplayersare

abletoshootataspeedofover120km/h(cf.“Thehardest

recorded shot in football – ever”, 14 February 2007, The

Guardian).

Another challenge is the vantage point. When viewed from

certain angles, it is easy to misjudge the ball’s position.

Cameras placed at different angles can mislead viewers

when showing images “proving” whether or not the ball

has crossed the line, which is why only technology dedicated

to evaluating such incidents can support the referee in the

decision-makingprocessandcontributetoafairgame.

Figure 2: one situation, different perceptions


1.3 Developments since 2012

Since the introduction of goal-line technology in 2012, there

has been an update of the requirements manual (in 2014)

and the use of GLT in several hundred matches has shown

an improvement of the technology over time.

The most notable change was the stricter accuracy

requirement in the 2014 edition of the GLT Testing Manual,

which now requires any system to function to a maximum

margin of error of ±1.5cm (compared to ±3cm in the 2012

edition).

The latest tests from the English Premier League for the

2014-2015 season showed an average accuracy of ±3mm

across all stadiums, meaning that the values are well within

the IFAB requirements.

Similar improvements were visible between the FIFA

Confederations Cup 2013 and the FIFA World Cup 2014™,

where the accuracy was also well within the requirements

following further development and more experience with

the systems in the Brazilian stadium environment.

Inadditiontothetechnicalimprovement,positivefeedback

was received from several FIFA committees : Karl-Heinz

Rummenigge congratulated FIFA on behalf of the European

Club Association for the introduction of GLT during the

meeting of the Strategic Committee.

1.4 Laws of the Game

The IFAB Special Meeting at FIFA’s Zurich headquarters on

5 July 2012 certainly lived up to its name, as the so-called

Awareness Technology

Source: 2014 FIFA World Cup Post Event ResearchSource: 2014 FIFA World Cup Post Event Research

78% 95%

95% of those who were aware of GLT agreed that goal-line technology should be used for all elite football matches.

78% of respondents who were interested in football were aware of goal-line technology following the FIFA World Cup™.


“guardiansofthegame”finallygavethego-aheadforgoal-

line technology to be written into the Laws of the Game.

1.4.1 Amendments to the Laws of the Game

As a consequence of The IFAB’s decision in principle to

approve the use of GLT, the following amendments to the

Laws of the Game were approved:

Law 10 – The Method of Scoring

Goal scored

(…)

Winning team

(…)

Competition rules

(…)

Goal-line technology (GLT)

GLT systems may be used for the purpose of verifying

whether a goal has been scored to support the referee’s

decision. The use of GLT must be stipulated in the

respective competition rules.

Law 10 – The Method of Scoring

(Interpretation of the Laws of the Game)

No goal

(…)

Goal-line technology (GLT)

Principles of GLT

• GLT applies solely to the goal line and only to determine

whether a goal has been scored

• The GLT system must be in accordance with the FIFA

Quality Programme for Goal-Line Technology

• The indication of whether a goal has been scored must

beimmediateandautomaticallyconfirmedwithinone

second

• The indication of whether a goal has been scored will

be communicated by the GLT system only to the match

officials(viathereferee’swatch,byvibrationandvisual

signal)

Requirements and specifications of GLT

If GLT is used in competition matches, the competition

organisers must ensure that the system meets the

requirements set out in the FIFA Quality Programme for

Goal-Line Technology Testing Manual. This manual must

be approved by the International Football Association

Board. An independent testing institute must verify the

accuracy and functionality of the different technology

providers’ systems according to the Testing Manual.

It’sahelp.AndIthinkitmakesthingsbetter.IfitisdecidedtocontinuetouseitIthinkitisgood.

(Argentina player Lionel Messi, FIFA Ballon d’Or 2014 press conference, 12 January 2015)


Law 5 – The Referee

(Decisions of the International F.A. Board)

Decision 1

(…)

Decision 2

(…)

Decision 3

Where goal-line technology (GLT) is used (subject to the respective competition rules), the referee has the duty to test the technology’s functionality before the match. The tests to be performed are set out in the FIFA Quality Programme for Goal-Line Technology Testing Manual. If the technology does not function in accordance with the Testing Manual, the referee must not use the GLT system and must report this incident to the respective authority.

In addition, the members approved the FIFA Quality

Programme for Goal-Line Technology and the associated

TestingManual,layingdownthelicensingandcertification

procedure for GLT. Furthermore, The IFAB approved

the following amendments so that GLT could be used

viainstallationsonthefieldofplay(i.e.goals)orinside

matchballs:

Law 1 – The Field of Play


Decision 1

(…)

Decision 2

Wheregoal-linetechnology(GLT)isused,modificationsto the goal frame may be allowed. They must be in accordancewiththespecificationsstipulatedintheFIFA Quality Programme for Goal-Line Technology and according to the above description, “Goals”.

Law 2 – The Ball


Decision 1

(…)

Decision 2

(…)

Decision 3

Where goal-line technology (GLT) is used, balls with integrated technology are allowed, but they must either be “FIFA APPROVED”, “FIFA INSPECTED” or “INTERNATIONAL MATCHBALL STANDARD” (see “Decision 1”).

Ithinkitisafairsolution.Duringthe2010WorldCup,Iwastherewhen England scored a goal and the referee did not recognise it. The referee will no longer harbour any doubts – in or out.

(Germany player Manuel Neuer, FIFA Ballon d’Or 2014 press conference, 12 January 2015)


1.5 FIFA Quality Programme

In addition to deciding on the principle of goal-line

technology, the Special Meeting of The IFAB in July 2012

finalisedthefour-steplicensingandcertificationprocessfor

allfutureGLTprovidersandtheprocedureforthefinalcheck

by the referee before each match.

Please note that steps one and two of the licensing and

certificationprocessaretheresponsibilityoftheGLT

company. The competition organiser can only select a GLT

system that has been licensed by FIFA for its installations

and is therefore only involved in steps three and four of

this procedure.

In step one, the GLT provider has to meet various

application requirements and the test criteria of the GLT

systemtestasdefinedinthelatestGLTTestingManual.

If the application is successful, FIFA will issue a standard

licence agreement to the company in step two. In step

three, the GLT system is tested again on completion of the

installation.Basedonthesuccessfulfinalinstallationtest,

the competition organiser must accept and approve the

installation.Afterfinalapprovalofthesubmitteddocuments

by FIFA, the installation is awarded the FIFA Quality PRO seal

in step fourofthelicensingandcertificationprocess.

Licensing procedure and certification process

1.5.1 Licensing procedure (steps 1 and 2)

Step 1a: application

Providers of GLT systems are invited to apply

for the FIFA licence. In order to guarantee a

high level of quality for the end user, GLT

providers must prove that they meet certain

requirements in terms of system production, business

management and social responsibility. These requirements are

definedintheapplicationdocumentonwww.fifa.com/quality.

Step 1b: GLT system test

The GLT product must pass the GLT system test that is

carried out by a FIFA-accredited test institute. These intensive

tests are applied to the GLT system to assess its functionality,

accuracyandwearandtearinthelaboratory,onthefield

and in simulated real-game situations.

Step 2: FIFA licence

Following successful application and the GLT

system test, the provider will become a

licensee under the FIFA Quality Programme

for Goal-Line Technology upon signature by

both parties to the agreement. The provider is then

permitted to install its GLT system in any stadium worldwide

foruseinofficialmatches.ThenameoftheGLTprovideras

a licensee and the system will be publicly accessible on

www.fifa.com/quality.




QUALITY

ACCEPTANCEOF THE

INSTALLATION


TEST


AGREEMENT

POSITIVEGLT SYSTEM

TEST

APPLICATION




QUALITY

ACCEPTANCEOF THE

INSTALLATION


TEST


AGREEMENT

POSITIVEGLT SYSTEM

TEST

APPLICATION


1.5.2Certificationprocess(steps3and4)

Step 3a: installation of the system

The FIFA licence authorises the GLT provider

to install the GLT system anywhere in the

world. The GLT provider must ensure that the

end user is properly informed about the

technology and how to operate and maintain the system

and provide each end user with a maintenance guide. It

must also provide the end user with a warranty of at least

two years for its GLT system.

Step3b:finalinstallationtest

On completion of installation and in order to be allowed

tousetheinstalledGLTsysteminofficialmatches,each

individual GLT system must be tested again by a FIFA-

accreditedtestinstituteoratestinstitutethatiscertified

toISO17025forgoal-linetechnologytests.ThefinalGLT

installationtestisamodifiedversionoftheGLTsystemtest,

the aim being to test the functionality of each GLT system

following installation.

Step 3c: acceptance of the installation

Theinstallationandresultsofthefinalinstallationtest

must be accepted by the GLT provider’s customer (e.g.

competition organiser, stadium owner, club, etc.) using

FIFA’sstandardacceptanceandacknowledgementform.The

signeddocumentmustthenbesubmittedtoFIFAforfinal

approval and sign-off.

Step4:FIFAQUALITYcertification

OnfinalapprovalofthedocumentsbyFIFA,

the installation is awarded the FIFA QUALITY

sealandlistedonwww.fifa.com/quality.The

GLTsystemcannowbeusedinofficial

matches/competitionsforaperiodof12monthsandmust

then be re-tested annually.

1.5.3 Final check by the referee before each match

TheIFABhaveclarifiedthereferee’spositionintheLawsof

theGame(Law5)bystatingthatmatchofficialscanuse

the GLT system to support their decision provided they are

convinced of its functionality, for which appropriate tests

shall be carried out before the match.

Thematchofficialsareobligedtocheckthefunctionalityof

theGLTsystembymeansofspecifictestsbeforeitisused

prior to each match. If the tests do not satisfy the referee

Goal equipped with goal-line technology at Yokohama

International Stadium.


(i.e. the technology fails one or more tests), he must decide

not to use the GLT system for the relevant match. Prior to

kick-off,thestadiumoperator,club,competitionorganiser

(as appropriate) or GLT provider must hand over the

matchballsandsixreferees’watchestothematchofficials

forthefinalcheckandthedecisionontheuseofthe

installed GLT system.

The stadium operator must be informed immediately by the

referee once the decision has been made as to whether the

GLT system will be used or not in a match. Furthermore,

afterthefinalwhistle,thematchofficialsareobligedto

inform the organiser of the competition if the GLT system

was used during the entire match and whether it functioned

properly or its use was rejected by the referee during the

match. Detailed information on this procedure can be found

intheTestingManual2014onwww.fifa.com/quality.

FIFA referee Peter O’Leary (NZL) performing the final check of the system.

14 2. Implementation of goal-line technology

Creating a comprehensive project plan is crucial to successful

implementation of GLT in a competition. All the parties

involved in the organisation of a competition in which

goal-line technology is to be used should therefore be

included in an initial meeting before a detailed project plan

can be developed by the relevant department. Based on

the experience of the FIFA tournaments, FIFA recommends

arrangingakick-offmeetingasastartingpointtodiscuss

thefollowingpointswiththerelevantpeopleandmakinga

decision only after all the information has been gathered.

2.1 Pre-planning

Asafirststep,thecompetitionorganisershoulddiscuss

the needs and opinions of the competition members

2. Implementation of goal-line technology

concerning goal-line technology. After performing a cost-

benefitanalysisforthisproject,itisrecommendedthatthe

organiser discusses and answers basic questions on the

implementation of GLT for the competition in question.

These will help determine the required resources including

staff that will be needed before and during the competition.

After deciding on the combination of these different options

(many different permutations are possible), a legal basis

must be established for the use of goal-line technology. As

definedintheLawsoftheGame,theuseofGLTmustbe

stipulated in the respective competition rules (Law 10 – The

Method of Scoring).

It is also essential that a budget is allocated not only for the

installation of the technology but also for the running costs

Figure 3: initial questions to be answered by the competition organiser

OPTION 1 OPTION 2 OPTION 3 OPTION 4

General Allow GLT use Do not allow GLT use

System All stadiums must have

the same system

All stadiums must have

the same system

Stadiums may use a

system. If they do, it

must be the same.

Stadiums may use a

system and are free to

select it

Ownership/finance System is purchased by

stadium owner

Systemisfinanced

(lease/purchase)by

competition organiser

Systemisleased/

purchased by the club

Ownership is irrelevant

as long as there is a

system in place

Maintenance Centrally organised

and administered by


Individual organised

for each installation

Supervised by the


Application in

competiton

All competition

matches to use GLT

GLT need not be used

in all games (possible

introduction during

competition)

Individual schedule

dependingonspecifics

of competition

Replays of goal-line

incidents

No replays allowed Replays accepted only

on TV

Replays only accepted

on LED screens in the

stadium

Replays accepted on

TV and LED screens in

the stadium


of the system once installed. This cost calculation should be

basedonmarketinformationandincludethefollowingasa

minimum:

Figure 4: cost calculation

1. Site inspection with GLT provider(s)

2. SelectedGLTsystem(rent/purchase)

3. Installation of system (temporary/permanentinstallation)

4. Final installation test by an independent test institute

5. Travel and accommodation

6. Personnel costs (dedicated staff)

7. Education of referees (regular training sessions)

8. Operation by GLT provider during competition

9. Maintenance of GLT system by GLT provider

10. Annual testing of GLT system by independent test institute

11. Other costs (depending on the type of competition)

12. Development of replays (if applicable)

The above-mentioned points should be discussed in an

initial meeting with all involved parties and result in a

comprehensive project plan including a timetable, action

pointsandresponsibilities.Thefinalversionofthisdocument

will represent the guideline for the implementation of goal-

line technology in the competition. It should be available

for all involved parties and regularly updated by the relevant

person/department.

Figure 5:stakeholdersinGLT

1. Department in charge of organising and running the competition

2. Proposed overall project manager

3. Refereeing department

4. Legal department for regulations and contracts

5. Finance department in charge of budgets

6. TV/Broadcastingdepartmentregardingreplays (if applicable)

7. Media department

FIFA competitions: pre-planning

FIFA normally starts the preparation phase for GLT at least

six months before a small tournament (16 matches or less)

and up to 12 months ahead of a major tournament. All

stakeholdersofthecompetitionwhowouldbeaffected

by goal-line technology are involved in the implementation

process and receive regular updates. A project plan is

developed with clear action points, a timetable and

dedicated responsibilities.

Figure 6:pre-planningchecklist

Identify the needs and requirements of the competition

stakeholdersregardingGLT

Draft a cost calculation and identify the necessary

budget

Create the project plan with action points, timetable

and responsibilities

2.2 Bidding procedure

In order to obtain the desired quality and service at the best

price, a tender process is highly recommended. The more

detailed the tender document and the earlier it is made

available,thehigherthelikelihoodofshorternegotiations

and avoiding unnecessarily high logistics costs. Such details

may include required insurance policies, restrictions on

workinginstadiums,customsandimportdutiesorpower

supply in the stadiums. By being aware of the existing GLT

technologiesonthemarketandtheirrequirements(stadium,

infrastructure, matchballs, goals and general logistics), the

competition organiser can pre-empt many issues when

drafting the tender document.


Figure 7: content of tender for goal-line technology

1. Project overview

–Objectives of the implementation

–Competition stadiums (technical drawings)

–Time frame for installation and tests

2. Project requirements

–Terms and conditions of tournament organiser

–Technical requirements for the GLT system

–Duration of the provision

–Details of competition venues

3. Service requirements

–Provision of the GLT system

–Shipment of the GLT system

– Installation and dismantling (if applicable) of the GLT

system

–Operation of the GLT system

–Maintenance and storage of the GLT system

–Provision of replays to be broadcast (if applicable)

–Projectmanagementandstaffingduringtheentire

process

4. Detailed information on the tender procedure

–Date for submission of offers

– Form of tender (language, structure, content)

–Costs which have to be included in the bid (including

taxes, customs etc.)

–Dates for potential visits or site inspections

–Schedule of the tender process

5. Installation and operational requirements of the GLT provider

6. Legal basis for the tender

It is strongly recommended to have the GLT provider(s)

visit the sites before concluding any agreement in order to

ensure that a) the technology can be installed at all the given

stadiums and b) that the submitted costs do in fact cover

alleventualities.Skippingthisstepmayleadtoadditional

unforeseen problems, which may in turn produce added

costs or delays.

Figure 8: recommended agenda of site inspection

1. Explanation of GLT system to stadium management by GLT provider

2. Identificationofnecessaryworksandagreementonfeasibility

3. Agreement on installation details (timeline, access requirements,workingrequirements)

4. Agreement on lines of communication between competition organiser, GLT provider and stadium management

5. Minutes of all the agreed points

Following the site inspection, the GLT provider should

amend its offer to incorporate any changes relating to the

infrastructureandsubmitafinalandbindingoffertothe

competition organiser. This document should be the basis

for decision and the agreement to be signed by both parties.

Hawk-Eye camera


FIFA Confederations Cup 2013: bidding procedure

FIFA launched a tender process for the delivery of the

FIFA Confederations Cup 2013 at the beginning of 2013.

All four licensed providers were invited to submit initial

proposals based on the requirements set by FIFA and the

Local Organising Committee (LOC). A site inspection tour

ofthesixvenuestookplaceinMarch2013,afterwhichall

participatingprovidershadoneweektoamendandfinalise

their offer including cost, project plans and timelines for

installation. It is worth noting that some stadiums were

under construction, which led to uncertainties in terms

of timelines or processes. In such cases, it is important to

determine who is responsible for such changes.

Figure 9:biddingprocedurechecklist

Consultwww.fifa.com/qualityforalllicensedprovidersand obtain a basic understanding of the providers’ systems

Gather detailed information about the competition stadiums/matchballsandanyotherrelevantdetails

Draft and issue a tender document with all available information

Organise a site inspection tour with the participating companies

Comparethesubmittedbidsandfinalinstallationdocuments

Makeadecisionbasedontheindividualneedsofthecompetition organiser

2.3 Concluding a contract

After the GLT provider has been selected, an agreement

must be drafted for the provision and installation of the GLT

system and related services, such as the operation of the GLT

system (if applicable). It is recommended that the following

points are part of the agreement. By including non-sensitive

information in the tender document, lengthy negotiations

can be pre-empted at this point of the process:

Figure 10: project agreement – consideration of legal points

1. Appointment of contractor

2. Fees

3. Provision, delivery and operation of GLT system

4. Quality of GLT system (essentially, each GLT installation mustpassthefinalinstallationtest)

5. Intellectual property rights

6. Useofthecompetitionorganiser’strademark

7. Warranties and representations

8. Confidentiality

9. Termination

10. Liability

11. Insurance

12. Security

GoalControl camera and view of control room


FIFA Confederations Cup 2013: concluding a contract

The project agreement signed by FIFA and GoalControl

was based on the proposal submitted by the provider. The

agreement covered all foreseeable costs and was concluded

before the beginning of the installation period in April 2013.

With responsibilities for both sides thus contractually agreed,

both sides were aware of the required services and timelines.

Figure 11:checklistforconcludingacontract

Draftanagreementthatreflectsthetermsagreedwiththe GLT provider

Discuss legal aspects that are important from an internal perspective in detail (please see above)

Consider worst-case scenarios when drafting the agreement

2.4 Installation period

One of the most sensitive points during this

phase of the project is determining a joint

schedulefortheinstallationandfinaltestof

the goal-line technology systems. All parties

in this process (competition organiser, GLT provider, stadium

management) should therefore agree on the dates when the

company will be allowed access to the stadium(s) to install

its system(s), especially those dates when it is allowed to

enterthefieldofplay.

Please note that GLT providers calibrate and test their

systemsduringdaylightandusingfloodlights.Ifspecial

permissionisrequiredtousefloodlightsatthestadium

on non-matchdays, it should be provided from the

beginning of the installation period.

The following points should be completed before the

relevant GLT provider arrives at the stadium concerned for

the installation of its system:

Figure 12: clarificationbeforearrivaloftheGLTprovider at the stadium

1. Determine a joint schedule for access to the stadium andthefieldofplay

2. Prepare accreditation for the GLT provider (if needed)

3. Provide a list of stadium management contacts with telephone numbers

4. Clarify details of shipment receipt, storage and logistics on site

5. Ensuretheagreedrequirementshavebeenfulfilledbyall three parties

6. DefinedateswhentheGLTprovidercanspeaktolocalexperts about technical matters (e.g. cabling, camera installations, power supply, set-up of LED boards, etc.)

Itisessentialthatstadiummanagementworkscloselywith

the goal-line technology provider, with regular updates

during the installation period. If there are language

differences, it is recommended to have an interpreter on site

for the update meetings or special requests.

GoalRef installation


FIFA Club World Cup 2012: installation period

Between October and November 2012, the GLT providers

began the installation of their systems in the two stadiums

used for the FIFA Club World Cup in Japan. In close

cooperation with the Japan Football Association (JFA),

the Local Organising Committee and the local stadium

management,Hawk-Eyeinstalleditssysteminthe

ToyotaStadium(15 October–28 November)andGoalRef

intheYokohamaInternationalStadium(19 November

–2 December).

Figure 13:installationperiodchecklist

Determine a schedule for access to the stadium and thefieldofplay

Askforspecialpermissiontousefloodlightson non-matchdays (if needed)

Prepare the competition stadiums (stadium management) for the installation period

Monitor the progress of the installation and update the project plan

GoalRef antenna behind the goal

Hawk-Eye control room


2.5 Final installation test and acceptance of the installation

As stated in the Laws of the Game (cf. 1.2.2),

afinalinstallationtestmustbeperformed

before the referee can use the system in a

competition.ThefinalinstallationofaGLT

systemhastopasstherequirementswhicharedefinedin

thelatesteditionofthetestingmanual(www.fifa.com/

quality) and meet the approval of the competition organiser

beforeitcanbecertifiedbyFIFA.Forthisprocedure,theGLT

provider will hand over the FIFA acceptance and

acknowledgementformtothecompetitionorganiserforthe

appropriatesignature.Theresultsofthefinaltestshouldbe

made available by the test institute to the competition

organiser before approval of the installation.

Pleasenotethatonlypositivetestresultsofthefinal

installation test can be approved by the competition

organiser.

Alistofaccreditedtestinstitutesforfinalinstallationtestsis

availableonwww.fifa.com/quality.Shouldthecompetition

organiser wish to use a different (for example local) test

institute, a comprehensive training and accreditation session

can be organised (at the cost of the test institute to be

accredited).Suchproceduresmay,however,takesometime

andshouldthereforebenotifiedtoFIFAwellinadvance.

Final installation test – goalkeeper test


On approval by the competition organiser, the

document is submitted by the GLT provider

toFIFAforafinalcheckofthedocuments

andcertificationoftheinstallation.Finally,the

stadiumwiththecertifiedinstallationwillappearonFIFA’s

websitewww.fifa.com/quality.OnlythenmaytheGLT

installationbeusedinofficialmatchesforaperiodof

12 months in the stadium in question.

2014FIFAWorldCup™:finalinstallationtestand

acceptance of the installation

All 12 stadiums of the 2014 FIFA World Cup™ had to be

tested prior to the tournament. Following a tender process

with all of the accredited test institutes, FIFA appointed

Labosport Ltd to test the competition stadiums. Due to

the additional logistics of certain stadiums being under

construction, a decision was made to test the stadiums

that had been used earlier at the FIFA Confederations Cup

Final installation test – dropping a plumb to define the goal line

(March 2014) and the newly-built venues for the FIFA World

Cup™ closer to the tournament (May 2014). Following this,

allvenueswerecertifiedforthetournamentperiodstarting

in June 2014.

Figure 14: checklistforfinalinstallationtestandacceptance of the installation

Selectanindependenttestinstituteforthefinalinstallation test (contract needed)

Agreeonascheduleforthefinalinstallationtestswith the test institute, GLT provider and stadium management

Prepare the competition stadiums (stadium management)forthefinaltest

Approvethefinalinstallationbasedonpositivetestresults

Submit the signed FIFA acceptance and acknowledgementformtotheGLTprovider

CheckwhethertheinstallationappearsonFIFA.combefore the start of the competition


Figure 15: FIFA acceptance and acknowledgement form


2.6 Training of referees

It is essential that referees who are not familiar with goal-

line technology systems experience the system before using

it during a match. FIFA recommends having a dedicated

training session comprising theoretical and practical sessions

on the pitch at one of the venues where the system is

installedinordertogetafeelforthesystemfirsthand.

Figure 16: training session on goal-line technology

1. Explain why goal-line technology supports referees (vantage points!)

2. Present the installed GLT system

3. Demonstrate the accuracy of the system

4. Explain the referee’s watch in detail

5. Handoverarefereechecklistfortheobligatoryrefereecheck

6. Providetrainingintherefereecheckforallparticipatingreferees

7. Explain the procedure should the watch malfunction during a match

8. AskforfeedbackonthefunctionalityoftheGLTsystemafter each match

9. Questions and answers after the training session

Goal-line technology training session

2014 FIFA World Cup™: education of referees

Toensurethatallmatchofficialswerecomfortablewiththe

new technology and to explain the new procedure in more

detail,allrefereeteamstookpartinaGLTtrainingsession


“It was important that we had the training session before the tournament to show the referees the accuracy of the system and that they could rely on the new technology.”

(FIFA Head of Refereeing Massimo Busacca,

16 December 2012)

attheMaracanãStadiumafewdaysbeforethefirstmatch

kickedoff.Thegeneralfunctionalityandaccuracyofthe

systemsandinparticularthemandatoryrefereecheckwere

important parts of this training.

Figure 17:checklistforeducationofreferees

Organise referee training sessions before the use of goal-line technology

Distributearefereechecklisttoallrefereesinthecompetition

DefineaprocedureincasetheGLTsystemmalfunctions during a match

Analysethereferees’feedbackongoal-linetechnology(information stream)

2.7 Competitions

For the integration of goal-line technology in the match

procedure,itisessentialtoworkcloselywiththepeoplewho

are responsible for the tournament organisation. Depending

on the type of competition and matchday operations during

the competition, different aspects come into play. For the

Goal-line technology training session


Figure 18: official match report: match no. 10 – referee feedback on goal-line technology check


FIFA tournaments at which GLT had been deployed so far,

the FIFA Competitions Department, the FIFA Refereeing

Department and the broadcaster were involved and the

following challenges were discussed:

Figure 19: touchpoints with the tournament organisation

1. Inform the participating teams in advance on the use of goal-line technology

2. Provideteamswiththemodifiedballsinadvancefortraining purposes (only if GLT is inside the ball)

3. Determine a match countdown for goal-line technology as well as communication channels on matchdays

4. Double-checkthedeliveryofreplaysofgoal-lineincidents to the competition broadcaster (if any visualisation of replays is desired)

5. Include the GLT match countdown in the overall match countdown

6. Carry out a functionality test of the GLT system before thematchstarts(threetofivehoursbeforekick-off)

7. Hand over the referees’ watches, matchballs and refereechecklisttotherefereeteamwhentheyarriveat the stadium

8. Wait for the green light by the referees after the refereecheck

9. Stayincontactwiththefourthofficialduringthematch in case of any problems with the system

10. Receivethereferees’watchesandfeedbackafterthematch

11. Return the referees’ watches to the GLT provider

12. ObtainfeedbackfromtheGLTproviderabouttheperformance of the system during the match

The adopted match countdown should include the

procedurefortherefereecheck,whichwasdefinedin

the GLT Testing Manual 2014 (p. 44) and approved by

TheIFAB.Thecheckbytherefereeteamcanbecarried

out earlier than proposed in the GLT Testing Manual, but the

information on the use of GLT from the referee team should

be submitted to the competition organiser no later than 45

minutesbeforekick-off.

COUNTDOWN MATCH 2 FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP 2012

10.00 Team meeting GLT staff

10.30 Meeting with GLT provider

11.00 Functionality test on both goals by competition

organiser

14.15 Arrival of referee at the stadium

14.15 Handoverofofficialmatchballsandreferees’

watches to referee team

14.20 Checksbytherefereeteam

14.30 Information from referee team to competition

organiser (use or not to use)

16.00 Kick-offofMATCH2

17.45 Final whistle of MATCH 2

18.45 Return of referees’ watches to GLT provider

19.00 Feedbackbyrefereeteamtocompetition

organiser

19.45 FeedbackbyGLTprovidertocompetition

organiser

Figure 20: example from the FIFA Club World Cup Japan

2012

2014 FIFA World Cup™: competition

FIFA has a General Coordinator for its tournaments, who

is in charge of all competition matters at the venue. It was

thereforeimportanttofirstandforemostinformtheGeneral

Coordinator of the requirements and procedures relating to

goal-line technology. At the FIFA World Cup™, FIFA also had

a GLT manager on site to coordinate all matters relating to

the implementation of goal-line technology. This included

providingthematchofficialswiththewatches,assistingwith


thepre-matchchecksandactingasaliaisonbetweenthe

broadcaster and the General Coordinator in the event of any

issues.Duringall64matches,thesystemworkedwelland

there were no operational issues.

Figure 21:checklistforimplementationinthecompetition

Draft a GLT match countdown

Carry out a functionality test of the GLT system before each match

Hand over the referees’ watches, matchballs and refereechecklisttoreferees

Monitortherefereecheckbeforethematch

Monitor the performance of the GLT system during the match

Return the referees’ watches to the GLT provider

AnalysefeedbackfromtheGLTproviderandrefereeteam

2.8 Replays of GLT incidents

In addition to the use of GLT as a tool for the referee,

there has been increased demand to use the information

generatedbythesystemtoprovidevisualconfirmationofa

“When the ball went into the goal, we couldn’t be sure that it had in fact gone in. But my watch beeped. At that moment, we were not only creating history but also corroborating the result of the match. It was great to be part of it.”(FIFA referee Sandro Ricci (BRA) on the France v. Honduras FIFA World Cup™ match,

15 June 2014)

goal-line incident for spectators. As in other sports, this can

bedonethroughreplaysand/oranimationsoftheparticular

scene in question.

The fundamental decision regarding whether or not to use

or allow replays rests solely with the competition organiser.

Replays are not part of the GLT system and as such not

compulsory when using such a technological aid. Should

the tournament organiser allow replays to be shown,

several aspects must be considered:

Figure 22:checklistforGLTreplays

Include the competition organiser, the broadcaster and the GLT provider in the process

Clearlydefinethetechnicalset-upincludingtherequirements for the GLT provider, the broadcaster, the interfaces and the communication channels

Agree on the design of the replays (real image, animation, sequences, etc.) and who will bear the production costs

Clarify compatibility with broadcasting laws (especially in relation to commercial content or sponsorship)

Decide on when and where replays are to be shown (TV feed, stadium screens, etc.)


2.9 Use of GLT in competitions 2012-2014

Bythetimethe2014WorldCupkickedoff,goal-line

technology had been used in more than 550 competitive

matches. FIFA has made use of goal-line technology in four

of its tournaments to date (FIFA Club World Cup 2012, FIFA

Confederations Cup 2013, FIFA Club World Cup 2013 and

2014 FIFA World Cup™); in England, the so-called “goal

decision system” has been in use in the Premier League, cup

competitions and play-off matches as well as in international

matches involving the England team played at Wembley

Stadium. GLT has also been used in the Netherlands in the

Eredivisie and cup matches as part of a refereeing project

in the 2013-2014 season and during a youth tournament

(Copa Amsterdam) in 2013. Below is a summary of the

providers and the number of incidents.

In the 2012-2014 period, the GLT system was called into

action in more than 5% of the matches in which it was

used, or one incident per two matchdays in a standard

league. Besides being a vital support to the referee, the

systems have been able to demonstrate to the wider public

by means of replays that the correct call was made in close

decisions.

Tournament Country Provider GLT uses

FIFA Club World Cup 2012 Japan Hawk-Eye&GoalRef No incidents

FIFA Confederations Cup 2013 Brazil GoalControl No incidents

FIFA Club World Cup 2013 Morocco GoalControl 1 incident

2014 FIFA World Cup™ Brazil GoalControl 3 decisive incidents, 10 replays shown

English Premier League 2013-14 England Hawk-Eye 21 incidents

English cups 2013-14 England Hawk-Eye 1 incident

International matches 2013-14 England Hawk-Eye No incidents

Eredivisie 2013-14 Netherlands Hawk-Eye 1 incident

Copa Amsterdam 2013 Netherlands GoalRef No incidents

Figure 22: Use of goal-line technology in competitive matches 2012-2014

GLT incident during the 2014 FIFA World Cup™ –

match 10: France v. Honduras


My colleagues and I received the information from the watch almost immediately, so we had no doubt in allowing the goal, which did notproduceanykindofcontroversiesandcomplaintsfromtheplayers.IthinktheuseofGLTishelpfulforourworkandhashelpedusalottomaketherightdecisioninaverycomplex and crucial situation.

(FIFA referee Enrique Osses (CHL) on the Italy v. Costa Rica FIFA World Cup™ match,

20 June 2014)

GLT incident during the 2014 FIFA World Cup™ – match 24: Italy v. Costa Rica

30 3. Questions and answers

3.1 Use of GLT in leagues and competitions

Must a system be used for a whole season, or can it

be utilised as soon as it is installed?

This is entirely up to the competition organiser and one

ofthefirstthingstodefinewhenintegratinggoal-line

technology into a competition.

UEFA have chosen to use additional assistant referees

(AARs) in some of their competitions. Isn’t that easier,

more “human” and cheaper?

The IFAB has approved GLT and AARs, and it is up to

the respective confederations, member associations and

competition organisers to decide. For FIFA, based on

feedbackfromthetestinstitutes,weunderstandthat

for the critical situations when the ball is a fraction of a

centimetre behind the goal line, the human eye is not able

to clearly detect whether a goal has been scored or not.

Therefore, FIFA believes that GLT is the best possible support

for the referee, which is critical. That said, it is up to the

competition organiser to decide whether or not to use AARs

or not, whether in combination with GLT or otherwise.

How much does it cost to use GLT per stadium/

match?

There are many licensees, all of whom meet the

requirements set forth by The IFAB, that currently offer GLT

systems and therefore price their products in accordance

with normal economic mechanisms. Furthermore, there are

manyfactorsthatmayhaveasignificantinfluenceonthe

offers negotiated with the competition organisers:

- Type of competition (league or cup)

- Number of competition stadiums and matches played

- Complexity of installation, depending on the infrastructure

-Typeoftechnology(camera-basedv.magneticfield-based)

-Localfees/taxes/transportationcosts

3.2 Refereeing

Does the referee have to use the technology?

AsdefinedbyTheIFABintheLawsoftheGame,thereferee

can use the technology provided he or she is convinced of its

functionality, for which appropriate tests shall be carried out

before the match. However, the referee can disregard the

information provided by the watch during a match, if he or

sheiscertainthewatch/systemisn’tworkingproperly.

How can a referee check the functionality of the GLT

system?

Therefereeandhisorherteamareobligedtocheckthe

functionality of the technology before each match by

applyingtherefereecheck.Iftherefereecheckdoesnot

satisfy the referee (i.e. the technology fails one or more tests),

the referee must reject the use of the GLT system for the

relevant match. The decision must be made no later than 45

minutesbeforekick-off.Insuchcases,theorganiserofthe

competition must be informed accordingly of the decision.

How does the referee receive the information?

The indication of whether a goal has been scored is

immediatelyandautomaticallyconfirmedwithinonesecondto

the referee’s watch by means of vibration and a visual signal.

Thiswatchisusedspecificallyasanaidforjudgingwhether

the ball has fully crossed the line and is worn in addition to the

watch used by the referee to control the timing of the match.

What happens if a system malfunctions during the

game?Whatdoofficialsdothen?

The technical requirements of FIFA’s Quality Programme

for Goal-Line Technology are very strict. The GLT should

workproperlyduringeachmatch.Shouldtherebeafailure

of the relevant GLT system, the referee should report this

immediately to the appropriate authority, who in turn should

inform all relevant parties including the teams.

3. Questions and answers

313. Questions and answers

3.3 Licensingandcertification

How good are GLT systems licensed under the FIFA

Quality Programme for Goal-Line Technology?

AllofficiallylicensedGLTsystemsaresubjectedtoastrict

regime of tests. The GLT system test comprises an extensive

testonthefield,intrainingsessionsandinthelaboratory.

Furthermore, after a prototype has passed the GLT system

test, every installation is subject to another set of tests, the

finalinstallationtest,whichensuresthattheinstallation

concerned meets the same quality requirements for which

it was tested under the GLT system test. Thus before being

used during a given match, the installed system has been

tested in hundreds of situations and scenarios to ensure that

itworksinallconditions.

How soon can other companies be tested/potentially

come onto the market?

Any provider of goal-line technology systems can apply for

the FIFA licence. One of the crucial application criteria is

to pass the GLT system test that is carried out by a FIFA-

accreditedtestinstitute(currentlyEMPA)andthattakes

around four months. It does not matter which technology

the system is based on (e.g. camera-based as opposed to

technology in the ball) as long as the test criteria of the GLT

systemtest,whicharedefinedintheGLTTestingManual

2014, are passed. Detailed information about the application

process and requirements can be found on

www.fifa.com/quality.

Technology develops quickly. Will companies have to

submit to re-testing if their systems change?

AssoonasanysignificantchangestotheGLTsystemhave

been made, the entire system has to be re-tested. The GLT

licensee must inform FIFA immediately about any changes

to its licensed GLT system before installation. FIFA reserves

the right to decide, at its sole discretion, whether the entire

GLT system or certain elements of it should undergo the GLT

system test once again.

Howlongisalicence/certificationvalid?

The FIFA licensing agreement with the GLT licensee is valid

for two years and can be renewed after this period, whereas

the GLT installation has to be re-tested every year. It is

GLT incident during the 2014 FIFA World Cup™ – match 62: Netherlands v. Argentina

32 3. Questions and answers

importanttounderstandthatthecertificationperiodof

a GLT installation is separate from the licensing period

ofaGLTprovider,i.e.thecertificationtermofaGLT

installation may be valid beyond the term of the licence

agreement between FIFA and the GLT licensee. In this

regard, the GLT licensee or its customer can request a

re-test of the GLT installation in a stadium.

How often do the systems need maintaining and by

whom?

The maintenance frequency of a GLT system in a football

stadium depends on the technology. It is an obligation of

the provider of goal-line technology systems to provide a

detailed maintenance guide and appropriate maintenance

equipment and to carry out a maintenance training

sessionforitscustomer/stadiumoperator.Anotheroption

is for the entire maintenance process to be carried out

by the GLT provider on a regular basis. This must be

stipulated in the agreement between the GLT provider

and its customer.

How many test institutes are accredited?

Due to the expansion of GLT and its increasing

demand among tournament organisers, there are now

four independent test institutes that have obtained

accreditationtoconductthefinalinstallationtests.

3.4 Replays on TV and on LED screens in the stadium

Is it permitted to show replays on TV or in the stadium?

Yes, it is permitted, but the decision of whether or not

to allow it rests with the competition organiser. The

question of whether and how replays are shown on TV or

onanLEDscreeninastadiumshouldbeoneofthefirst

discussion points when starting the implementation of

goal-line technology in a competition. FIFA recommends

involving referees in this discussion as well, due to the

fact that the main objective of GLT is to support and

protect the referee.

President: Joseph S. Blatter

SecretaryGeneral: JérômeValcke

Address: Fédération Internationale de Football Association

FIFA-Strasse 20

P.O. Box

8044 Zurich

Switzerland

Tel.: +41 (0)43 222 7777

Fax: +41 (0)43 222 7878

Internet: FIFA.com

Goal-line technology

Concept: FIFA

Photos: Getty Images, Action Images

Fédération Internationale de Football AssociationFIFA-Strasse 20 P.O. Box 8044 Zurich SwitzerlandT: +41 (0)43 222 7777 F: +41 (0)43 222 7907 FIFA.com

GOAL-LINE TECHNOLOGY - Football Technology - … technology 6 1.1 Origins 6 ... The implementation of goal-line technology in football ... following further development and more experience

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