The 2010 FIFA world cup was a digital marvel. The recently culminated World Cup that was broadcast from South Africa used extensive video-wall and digital technology applications. Anyone who watched the 2010 FIFA world cup live on TV would have had the privilege to see the instant replays within a matter of seconds, thanks to the master control room.
However, as a hard-core soccer fan, I was very distressed about this year’s FIFA World Cup. All it requires is two giant video walls placed on either side, behind the two goalposts that telecasts the game live. It can be linked to the main control center where the operators can replay in slow motion the move in question.
With the presence of hi-tech digital gizmos, it becomes very easy to monitor those refereeing decisions that are in doubt. Just like the third umpire in cricket and the electronic eye in tennis that monitors line decisions, it is high time that such a similar electronic umpire is also appointed for football matches. It is quite distressing to note that the final decision is based on the referee’s word, while the whole world gets to see the actual incident, thanks to the video and digital technology present. There are over 20 operators present in the master control room and the referee has the option to clarify any decision that me may feel is doubtful in seconds. In fact, in cricket, it takes less than a minute for the third umpire to give a final approval to a decision that appears doubtful to the field umpires.
It is obvious that the primary job of the master control room and the rear projection video wall in the control is to monitor feeds and to provide the viewer with top quality service. When such a facility is available, what is wrong in having a second ‘digital’ referee?
The many incidents that generated much controversy at the 2010 World Cup Football further demonstrate the fact that the authorities must introduce video technology or other alternate digital refereeing to restore integrity to this grand game. We seemed to have progressed eons where digital technology is concerned, but still insist on the human error factor where the game is concerned. I never understand the bureaucracy!
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