For the first time in Premier League history, a referee will wear a head-mounted ‘RefCam’ camera during a match. Our very own Bootle RA member, Jarred Gillett, is set to use this innovative technology while officiating the clash between Manchester United and Crystal Palace on Monday.
Key Details:
- Match: Manchester United vs. Crystal Palace
- Referee: Jarred Gillett
- Technology: Head-mounted ‘RefCam’ camera
This groundbreaking move follows the successful use of similar technology in other leagues and events:
- Bundesliga: In February 2024, German referee Daniel Schlager wore a head-mounted camera during a match between Eintracht Frankfurt and Wolfsburg. The footage was featured in a show called ‘Referees Mic’d up – Bundesliga’.
- Pre-season Games: Referee Rob Jones wore a chest-mounted camera during a pre-season game between Chelsea and Brighton in Philadelphia. Similarly, Bootle RA member Peter Bankes used a chest-mounted camera during another pre-season Summer Series game.
Purpose and Approval
The video footage collected from the ‘RefCam’ will be used in a one-off program to highlight the incidents that occur while officiating a Premier League match. However, the footage will not be broadcast live. The aim of this program is to educate the public about the demands of officiating in the Premier League, enhance respect for match officials, and encourage more people to become referees.
The use of the camera has been approved by The International Football Association Board (IFAB), the Premier League, PGMOL, and both clubs involved in the match. The technology integrates a head-mounted device into the usual referee communications system.
This initiative reflects ongoing efforts to improve transparency and understanding of the challenges faced by referees in top-flight football.
We are excited to see the insights this technology will bring and the positive impact it could have on the perception of referees.