RFEF Explores AI for Referee Performance in Top Leagues

The Ciudad del Fútbol hosted a sectoral meeting on Thursday led by Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), President, Rafael Louzán, to advance discussions within the Arbitration System Reform Commission’s working groups.

The meeting provided a platform for constructive dialogue, with representatives from across the Spanish football landscape contributing to a consensus on the need to further integrate technology within both the men’s and women’s top-tier competitions.

A significant agreement emerged regarding the exploration of artificial intelligence tools for use in both Primera and Segunda División.

The initiative intends to enhance the data collection and analysis of refereeing teams’ performance during matches.

RFEF plans to formally approach FIFA for permission to implement the Football Video Support (FVS) system, which aims to facilitate its usage in Liga F and the Primera Federación, contingent upon securing an agreement with a technology provider and meeting the technical specifications necessary for the system’s rollout.

By leveraging the technology, match officials can make more informed decisions, thereby fostering increased objectivity and automation in processes, including referee evaluations and match appointments.

In addition, committee members will investigate various tools and implementation methodologies over the coming weeks, gearing up for the next meeting scheduled for 30 April.

Other key topics discussed included the formation of a dedicated VAR referee corps, exploring different models of refereeing organisation, and establishing mechanisms to enhance transparency and information flow among all stakeholders.

The discussions are set to resume in Las Rozas at the end of this month, as the RFEF continues to prioritise advancements in the integrity and efficiency of officiating within Spanish football.

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