FIFA experiments with goal-line technology which could be implemented in 2014 World Cup

The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has granted companies a further year to test goal-line technology systems, and will then choose whether one company can run a system to be introduced from 2013.

The IFAB represents the four British football associations and FIFA, and is holding its 125th anniversary meeting.

Nine European companies have registered to take part in the tests, which will be held behind closed doors in stadiums chosen by the technology providers.

The first test phase, due to be carried out in the next few months, will be conducted by the Swiss technology research institute EMPA. 

"EMPA is a government-funded research institute," project leader Martin Camenzind said.  "Our experience with football and FIFA started about 10 or 12 years ago with the quality concept of football testing. Thanks to our experience in football testing and long lasting collaboration we are very happy to be asked to do the goal-line technology project together with FIFA."

The tests will involve three sections to ensure that the systems can accurately and quickly inform the referee whether the ball has fully crossed the line.

Impact boards that will simulate a goalkeeper or defender clearing the ball away, and situations in which players could block the camera will also be recreated. There will also be tests done under floodlights.

The systems will eventually have to inform referees within one second whether the ball has crossed the line. Companies that pass the initial stage of testing will then undergo a second testing stage next year.

If one of the systems is approved, it could be used at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.