What will referees wear on their heads during FIFA World Cup 2026?

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup underway, many viewers have noticed referees wearing unusual headgear during matches.

The device contains a small high-definition camera known as the “Ref Cam”, which records the match from the referee’s point of view. The footage will be used for all 104 matches of the tournament and integrated into live broadcasts, giving fans a unique perspective on the action.

The technology was first trialled at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, before being tested in various domestic competitions.

Developed in collaboration with Lenovo, FIFA’s official technology partner, the latest version uses AI-powered image stabilization to reduce motion blur caused by the referee’s movements. The result is smoother, clearer first-person visuals that aim to increase fan engagement, provide greater insight into referee decisions and increase transparency during matches.

Published on June 12, 2026