The controversial disallowed penalty awarded to Julián Álvarez during the recent Real Madrid-Atlético Madrid Champions League match has once again brought the accuracy and consistency of refereeing decisions into sharp focus.
The debate surrounding the incident, whether the second touch by Álvarez was intentional or not, highlights the inherent difficulties in interpreting complex on-field actions in real-time. This incident underscores a critical need for improvements in the technology used to assist referees in making accurate calls.
This cutting-edge technology, developed through a collaborative effort between Adidas and a leading technology company, is set to make its highly anticipated debut at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, to be held in the United States. The “Connected Ball Technology,” as it’s officially known, incorporates a sophisticated inertial measurement unit capable of recording ball data at an impressive 500Hz, effectively capturing every single contact with unparalleled precision.
How the Connected Ball Technology works: Real-time data for VAR
The advanced technology within the ball is not merely a simple tracking device; it is a sophisticated system designed to seamlessly integrate with existing Video Assistant Referee (VAR) systems.
A strategically positioned motion detector suspended at the center of the ball guarantees exceptional stability and accuracy in detecting contacts, ensuring that the data relayed to match officials is reliable and trustworthy. The ball’s internal components are powered by a conveniently rechargeable battery, enabling continuous data transmission to the VAR team in real-time.
The data transmitted from the ball provides VAR officials with an abundance of information, including the precise location and time of each contact. When combined with the players’ positions (obtained through other tracking technologies already used in professional soccer), the data significantly aids in interpreting the nuances of play, particularly in complex scenarios such as the Álvarez incident.
The introduction of artificial intelligence further enhances the system’s capabilities, facilitating the analysis of the gathered data and improving decision-making speed.
Launch date and commercial availability
The innovative ball’s design is not just focused on functionality; it pays homage to the host nation of the 2025 Club World Cup, the United States. The exterior displays a unique color scheme, drawing inspiration from the American flag, featuring a blend of white, blue, and red hues on a distinctive pearlescent backdrop.
The commercially available version of the ball will retain the same aesthetic appeal, but without the embedded sensor technology. The sensor technology will be reserved exclusively for official tournament matches, ensuring the highest level of data accuracy and integrity.
The cost of the technology-enhanced ball for the commercial market is expected to be around $160. The technological innovation is expected to be widely adopted and should greatly improve the accuracy of refereeing decisions in professional soccer.
