The 2022 Club World Cup has a novel feature that’s captivating sports fans worldwide: referee body cameras that offer a ringside seat to the action. The vantage point of the ‘most insulted men in any meeting’ recently provided an eyebrow-raising view of Miguel Merentiel’s goal in Boca Juniors’ clash with Benfica.

"👀 This was seen by Merentiel’s goal through the referee’s chamber."

Notably, these innovative devices also transmit audio, allowing spectators to eavesdrop on the referee’s conversations with players and video assistants (VAR). The verbal exchanges paint a vivid picture, as if giving fans a guided tour of the game.

César Arturo Ramos: The Commentating Ref

Throughout the match, Mexican referee César Arturo Ramos offered witty commentary:

• Blue! – when Boca’s Augustin Marchesín’s long ball parted, < quote>“Blue!” was his instinctive response.
• Blue played! – when Carlos Palacios, overzealous, headed the ball, Ramos warned, < quote>“Blue played!”.
• Tunnel! – as Lautaro Blanco passed between Florentino Luis’s legs, the ref exclaimed, < quote>“Tunnel!”.

As the ball found Merentiel’s head and hit the net, Ramos shifted his gaze towards the jubilant Boca supporters.

What the Lawmakers Say

The Football Association, through its governing body, FIFA, has embraced this technology. FIFA‘s official website states that this innovation aims to boost the viewing experience by offering a new angle.

Visitors to the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami were treated to a visual and audio spectacle, hinting at a future where fans get to cheer alongside the ref.