German firm wins FIFA contract for goal-line tech
A German firm is set to provide goal-line technology at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
Three years after FIFA’s U-turn on technology following Frank Lampard’s infamous shot against Germany that crossed the line but was not awarded as a goal, the world body has appointed GoalControl to provide a system for the Confederations Cup in Brazil this summer and at the World Cup next year.
The system, GoalControl-4D, uses 14 high-speed cameras located around the pitch which are directed at both goals and is perhaps the most simple of the four systems currently licensed.
It will cost around £170,000 (€200,000) per stadium to install and a further £2,800 (€3,310) per match to operate. The company was selected ahead of the three other FIFA-licensed technology providers including British-based firm Hawkeye.
Germany have also been on the receiving end of controversial goal-line decisions – not least against England in the 1966 World Cup final.
A FIFA statement said: “While all four companies had previously met the stringent technical requirements of the FIFA quality programme, the final decision was based on criteria relating more specifically to the tournaments in Brazil, including the company’s ability to adapt to local conditions and the compatibility of each GLT system in relation to FIFA match operations.
“The respective bids were also judged on cost and project management factors such as staffing and time schedules for installation.
“The use of GoalControl-4D in Brazil is subject to a final installation test at each stadium where the system will be installed.”
It will be the second time a FIFA tournament has used goal-line technology after two other systems including Hawkeye were used successfully at the Club World Cup in Japan in December.
The Premier League is in advanced talks with two firms, one of which is Hawkeye, about having the technology at all clubs for the start of next season.
