New World Cup Feature Captivates Viewers: What Was on the Head Referee's Head During the Opening Match?

Even in the opening match of this year's FIFA World Cup, viewers noticed an unusual detail. Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio, who has little hair left, had several special devices attached to his head.

Naturally, there's a microphone for communicating with his assistants and the VAR system. However, he also had another device hanging from his ear: a small camera. This new feature will be seen throughout all 104 matches of the tournament.

This marks a first in World Cup history. Referees have never before worn a camera directly on themselves at this tournament. The device was tested last year at the Club World Cup, and the experiment was so successful that the decision was made to use the cameras at the national team World Cup as well.

Footage from the camera can be broadcast live during matches. This gives viewers a better understanding of what it's like to officiate from a referee's perspective. However, the camera won't only be used for controversial or difficult decisions. Footage will also appear during promising chances and goals themselves.