How adidas' FUSSBALLLIEBE Euro 2024 match ball will help VAR make offside calls - explained

Adidas introduced the FUSSBALLLIEBE match ball for Euro 2024, equipped with a chip to enhance semi-automated VAR offside decisions. Notably, this tech settled a debate around Cristiano Ronaldo's claimed goal in the World Cup during Portugal's 2-0 win over Uruguay and the strike was awarded to Bruno Fernandes after it was analysed through the 'Connected Ball Technology' data.

This technology, previously used in the Adidas Al Rihla ball at the World Cup, employs a sensor recording data 500 times a second, synchronised with stadium cameras for 3D offside graphics. There is a sensor at the centre of the ball which can record data 500 times a second whenever it is in contact with a player during live action. Adidas claim that the time needed to make a VAR offside decision will also see a significant reduction as it should now take just 25 seconds to make a call since there will be no need to manually draw lines.

Champions League balls lack the chip, as they rely on AI for offside calls. Fans both in stadiums and watching on TV will have visual access to offside graphics. Adidas claim that decision-making efficiency and accuracy will mark a pivotal shift in football with the help of this technology.

Premier League clubs plan a March vote on adopting automated offside tech, anticipating improved decision-making. It is already prevalent in the Serie A with a Puma matchball but it does not contain the chip.