FA announces that English referees will participate in the world’s first bodycam trial.
The FA has announced that BODYCAMS for referees will be tested for the first time ever.
According to FA CEO Mark Bullingham, the trial is intended to promote better behavior toward officials.
1
There will be four amateur leagues in England where the trial will be held.
Middlesbrough will test it out first, followed by Liverpool, Worcester, and Essex.
The footage will be accessible for use in disciplinary hearings if necessary, and 100 officials will have the equipment in the adult grassroots leagues.
In the 2023–24 season, more amateur leagues will adopt it if the trial is successful.
“Referees are the heart and soul of our game,” said Bullingham. “We thank Ifab for its support in enabling us to undertake this new grassroots bodycam trial, the first of its kind globally.
“We have taken into consideration the feedback from the referee community, and we anticipate that this trial will change how people behave toward referees.
“In order that they can ultimately enjoy officiating in a welcoming environment.”
In response to a BBC survey, hundreds of officials stated that they “feared for their safety.”
HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON FOOTBALL
Additionally, 293 out of 900 referees reported experiencing physical abuse from players, coaches, managers, or spectators.
Some allegedly mentioned “being punched, headbutted, and spat at,” according to a BBC report.
