Body cameras for referees in the 2026 World Cup

Football's law-making bodies have approved the extension of body cameras to referees, paving the way for their use at the 2026 World Cup. The cameras were used at the Club World Cup, which concluded in the United States in mid-month, and the International Football Association Board (IFAB), the game's law-making body, has approved their use in other competitions around the world. The aim of the trial was to see if they would enhance the match-viewing experience from the referee's perspective. Pierluigi Collina, chairman of FIFA's Referees Committee, praised the success of the cameras, saying, "The trial exceeded expectations." FIFA is therefore likely to use the cameras during the biggest tournament, the 2026 World Cup, and other tournaments around the world, including domestic leagues, are eligible to use the technology. However, authorization will need to be obtained from the IFAB and FIFA, who will provide comprehensive recommendations and technical information to help ensure the technology's effective use.