LaLiga: Potential Introduction of AI in Referee Assignments
The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has decided to investigate the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in the process of assigning referees, according to local media reports on Thursday.
The RFEF has initiated a series of meetings within the Referee System Reform Commission, gathering various stakeholders from Spanish football, including representatives from clubs and the Technical Committee of Referees.
During the most recent session, the proposal to utilize AI for referee assignments was met with enthusiasm. The objective is to modernize and enhance the transparency of the refereeing system in Spain.
La Liga presented a comprehensive report advocating for referee selection based on AI capabilities. This approach would involve the automatic assignment of referees for each match, as AI analyzes numerous variables and statistics to identify the most suitable candidates.
Additionally, the RFEF will formally seek permission from the international governing body (FIFA) to implement the “Football Video Support” system. This system, which could be deployed in both the Women’s Professional League and the top two divisions, serves as an alternative to VAR, allowing coaches to contest decisions they believe are incorrect.
These reforms, designed to mitigate ongoing controversies surrounding refereeing in Spain, will be reviewed in the coming weeks, with the next meeting scheduled for April 30.
