The Euro 2024 football tournament in Germany has implemented novel technologies to aid officials in their decision-making on the pitch. These innovations include “connected ball technology” and semi-automated offside technology (SAOT), which are designed to streamline the refereeing process and enhance the precision of calls during matches.
The “connected ball technology,” also known as the “snickometer,” is a device that utilizes sound to detect physical contact between objects. At the Euros, a microchip embedded in the ball captures any contact, such as Loïs Openda’s hand during Belgium’s match against Slovakia. This tool is intended to assist with offside calls and improve the accuracy of decision-making.
In addition to the “snickometer,” semi-automated offside technology (SAOT) has made its competitive debut at Euro 2024. This technology employs a microchip and camera calibration to expedite the process of officials making offside calls. By automating certain elements of the process, VAR officials are able to make swifter and more precise decisions, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency of the game.
While the introduction of these technologies has generally been positively received, there have been occasions where contentious decisions have sparked debate. For instance, the disallowance of Xavi Simons’ goal against France due to an offside call and an unawarded foul in the build-up to Germany’s goal have prompted discussions surrounding the application of these new tools.
Notwithstanding the advantages of these innovations, it is evident that certain aspects of football necessitate subjective interpretation by officials. The controversies surrounding specific calls, such as determining if a player was interfering with play or if a foul occurred, underscore the limitations of technology in addressing all issues in the game.
The introduction of these new technologies signifies a significant progression in the evolution of refereeing in football. While they strive to enhance the precision and efficiency of decisions, it is apparent that the human element in officiating will continue to play a pivotal role in the sport. As the tournament progresses, the utilization of these innovations will be closely monitored, and their impact on the game will be evaluated upon the conclusion of Euro 2024.