Serie A To Introduce Goal-Line Technology Next Season

Another one of the “Big Five” leagues has made a technological leap, with Italy’s Serie A unanimously approving the implementation of a goal-line system for next season. The options have been narrowed to three possibilities, including the FIFA GoalControl system used at the 2014 World Cup, the HawkEye system used by the Premier League and one unnamed option.

President of Italian soccer federation, Carlo Tavecchio, has mentioned a desire for goal-line technology (GLT) in the past, publicly stating he believed it will be implemented before next season. In an interview following exploratory meetings last month, Tavecchio was quoted:

“This morning’s meeting began a journey that will take us to the application of goal-line technology in our country during the predicted time-frame…I am convinced that its [GLT] use, starting from next season, will be unavoidable.”

Given the usage and growing acceptance of GLT in domestic and international leagues, seeing another one of Europe’s power leagues roll out a system is excellent. Of the Big Five, the Premier League already uses GLT, the Bundesliga will use it next season and with usage on the rise elsewhere — including US-based MLS clubs and the Dutch Premier League — it should be just a matter of time (and funding) before it is a universal part of soccer. While neither this year’s Africa Cup of Nations or Asian Cup offered GLT, it will be in use for the UEFA Euro 2016 matches. This year’s Women’s World Cup will feature goal-line technology for the first time, marking another step in the right direction.

(Featured image via the Serie A Facebook page)