Technology will help fans see the action from the refs’ point of view while AI will help detect offsides earlier and goalkeepers will be punished for time-wasting after eight seconds.
The FIFA Club World Cup has undergone a revamp since it was last competed in December 2023 in Saudi Arabia.
The number of participating clubs has increased fourfold to 32, the frequency of the competition has gone from annual to quadrennial and the champion’s prize money – previously $5m – has gone up by a whopping $35m.
It’s not just the numbers that have changed in the tournament. FIFA is also looking to introduce new technology, including artificial intelligence to help the referees, and it is getting stricter on goalkeepers who waste time while holding the ball.
Here’s a look at the three big changes to be implemented at the monthlong tournament, which will get under way on Saturday in the United States:
