FIFA President Sepp Blatter appears to be showing more support for technology with his recent discussion of a system that would let coaches use TV replays to challenge referees.
The TV replay system proposed would be monitored by a neutral official from the TV company that would be filming the game, according to CNET. Coaches would appeal, or "call," for a replay if they don't agree with a decision. The calls would be made after the play so the coaches don't interrupt the game, and they would only be allowed to appeal once or twice in each half.
Referees would be able to view the instant replay and change their decision. However, it has not been determined as to how long each "call" would take or how the referees would restart the play.
Blatter said the system could be tested at the FIFA Under-20 World Cup next year, BBC Sport reported.
"We can try in a youth competition, an Under-20, like next year when we are in New Zealand," he said.
"It can only be done where there is television coverage of all the matches."
Blatter has often opposed the involvement of technology in soccer, such as the use of sensors for measuring if the ball had crossed the line, CNET reported. However, the organization began using goal-line technology at this summer's 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
Coaches and players in other sports are allowed to call for a review of a decision as well. Tennis players have an unlimited number of calls, but are only allowed three incorrect challenges, and MLB coaches can appeal once or twice in a game, though it depends on whether the first appeal is successful. Cricket teams can appeal for a limited amount, and NFL coaches can throw a red flag onto the field to challenge a play.
While 78-year-old Blatter stated in 2011 that he would stand down as president of the international governing body of football in 2015, he announced recently that he looks to run for a fifth term, BBC Sport reported. He is scheduled to make an official announcement regarding the issue at FIFA's executive committee meeting on Sept. 25-26th.
"You see a mission is never finished. And my mission is not finished," Blatter said.
