Catch the Insights: How technology supports EHF officials in taking correct and transparent decisions

We present the first article in our special Women's EHF EURO 2024 series 'Catch the Insights'. George Bebetsos, EHF Officiating Unit Coordinator, explains the variety of video replay technological innovations and their significance for a fast-paced game.

Today everything is all about technology, and sport is no different. The European Handball Federation is using technology to adapt to changes and help the officials to take correct and transparent decisions. Advances in technology have had a profound impact on sport over the course of the last few years.

Starting from major events such as the EHF FINAL4 or the EHF EUROs, the EHF has implemented a wide range of technology support for its officials.

Prior to the start of the Women’s EHF EURO 2024, George S. Bebetsos , EHF Officiating Unit Coordinator, explains the variety of technological innovations and looks at how the use of video replay supports referees in making transparent and correct decisions.

Since 2016, the EHF has embraced officiating technology and video replay (VR) as essential tools to enhance the quality of refereeing. These technologies — including VR, goal-light technology, goal-line technology, the iBall, the electronic team timeout buzzer, substitution area control micro cameras, referee tracking devices, and the referee intercom system — were introduced to ensure fairness, reduce human error, and maintain the integrity of the game. Their implementation has gradually expanded, starting with high-profile tournaments such as the TruckScout24 EHF FINAL4 and EHF FINAL4 Women before being adopted for EHF EURO final tournaments and the regular Machineseeker EHF Champions League and EHF Champions League Women seasons.

“The primary motivation was to minimise controversial decisions and align handball with other major sports that have successfully integrated similar systems. With handball becoming more fast-paced, the need for real-time technological assistance became evident. In every match we have a big responsibility. Every single decision can change the career of referees. And every single decision can change a match completely,” Bebetsos says about the motivation of the EHF to implement those technologies over the years.

Initially, VR was limited to goal-line reviews and critical incidents, but its scope has expanded to include situations like foul reviews, player conduct, and determining game stoppages and game-changing situations. It can also be used in other critical situations, such as incorrect substitutions, misuse of the team timeout buzzer, fights on the court, end of playing time, or incidents out of the view of the referees. VOGO , EHF’s officiating technology provider, has developed a system whose reliability has improved with better cameras and software.

“Video replay has significantly reduced errors in critical decisions, ensuring fair outcomes. For example, situations involving disqualifications or last-second goals are now resolved with greater confidence,” says Bebetsos.

In regard to the evaluation by EHF experts, players and coaches show more restraint, knowing that decisions can be verified through technology.

“However, they also demand reviews in critical cases, which adds a new dynamic to officiating,” says Bebetsos, adding that it is still at the discretion of the referee to call for the use of video replay. Fans have also embraced the changes.

“They appreciate the transparency video replay provides, as it resolves contentious decisions. Players, coaches, and fans now trust that critical moments are handled fairly.”

One major point in the usage of VR is that referees balance using the technology without disrupting the game’s flow. “We aim to minimise delays by limiting the duration of reviews. A quick decision process is a priority,” says Bebetsos.

Therefore, all EHF referees are trained in using video replay in workshops and simulated match situations. EHF appointed João Capela , FIFA VAR Manager & VAR Instructor, to guide its officials in the proper approach to VR as well as instruct them on the effective use of this technology.

The whole VR system relies on a combination of TV production and VOGO ELITE BUNDLE. Multiple high-definition host broadcaster cameras are strategically placed around the court. A centralised review station with instant replay capability is also set up for real-time decision-making. In top competitions, like the EHF EURO and EHF FINAL4, the number of cameras ranges from 16 to 18.

“We ensure consistency by partnering with a top technology provider such as VOGO and conducting pre-event checks. Standardised protocols for setup and use are applied across competitions. Besides, Infront Productions play a crucial role by providing video feeds for replay systems. We work closely with them to ensure the quality and angles of footage meet the necessary standards,” Bebetsos explain the high level of the video production.

To achieve a better understanding from all parties involved, all video reviews are explained to teams and, when possible, to the audience. To further enhance transparency, EHF authorised live broadcasting of VR reviews in the Women’s EHF EURO 2024 arenas.

“The crowd becomes more involved as they follow the review, fostering a sense of participation in the decision-making process. Fans, especially casual viewers, learn more about the rules and how they are applied,” explains Bebetsos. “When fans and teams see the review and reasoning, it helps mitigate disputes over controversial calls. Clear communication shifts focus to fairness rather than potential errors.”

But even with more technological support, Bebetsos says the referees are still the key to everything.

“Technology should complement, not replace human referees. The human element remains vital for interpreting the spirit of the game. While technology is an invaluable tool, it cannot replace the human judgment and intuition referees bring to the game. Officiating is about more than accuracy — it’s about managing the flow and spirit of the sport.”