Does this technology deliver diminishing returns?
I do not want to come off as the old soccer warrior who believes that all technology is ruining 'the beautiful game.' I actually embrace technology and use different facets of augmented and virtual reality on a regular basis. The question for all of us is where does the use of technology with football (soccer) start and stop?
The continuous and variable use of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) and that technology has raised eyebrows worldwide. The word variable is key as each federation and/or specific league uses VAR for different circumstances or occurrences during the game. Does FIFA try to restrict or govern the use of VAR worldwide?
For me, the technology I have agreed with for the last few years is the use of goal-line technology, which adds credence to the outcome of a game. Too many times, in many important matches, the Assistant Referee, due to the speed and pace of play, has not been able to ascertain whether the ball has completely crossed the goal line. The use of goal line technology, when quickly communicating to the referee that a goal has or has not been scored, is good for the game.
Now we have been alerted by FIFA that 'semi-automatic' offside technology will, in microseconds, study analytics derived from players bodies and limbs, as well as the ball, to determine if a player was in an active offside position. Take some time and watch the video below.
Again, I am all about technology, but with the VAR variable and this new semi-automatic offside technology, five substitutions, and injuries, how much stoppage in play, going forward, is acceptable? It is just my take, let me know your thoughts.
Gary Levitt @gary1123 justmytake.net
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