Serie A will push for the swift implementation of a facial recognition system in Italian stadiums, according to league president Luigi De Siervo. He expressed readiness to spearhead the plan, offering clubs the opportunity to equip themselves with the necessary software. The aim is to facilitate the quick and easy identification of individuals who engage in racist behavior or participate in hooliganism.
The idea for such a system has been on the table for a while, but there has been no progress until now.
“The plan is to have cameras at the stadium entrances with the capability of facial recognition for everyone entering. This information would be linked to the details people provide when purchasing tickets. This would allow us to immediately identify troublemakers,” explained De Siervo to Corriere della Sera.
The catalyst for the Serie A president’s statement is the recent incident of racism against AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan by Udinese fans in the last match between the two sides. Monkey sounds were directed at the French goalkeeper, leading to a temporary suspension of the match. The hosts pledged to impose lifetime bans on the identified fans responsible for the behavior.
“Despite the economic crisis due to COVID-19 and the reluctance of players to even partially reduce their salaries, I hope we can find funds to invest in this technology. The cost is high, but hopefully, we can secure approval for the project before the end of this season,” added De Siervo.