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Speeding up the TMO

An independent TMO process will be introduced to the United Rugby Championship, designed to improve the accuracy of key decisions and speed up the game.

Backed by Hawk-Eye technology, the Television Match Officials (TMO) will have real-time access to every broadcast camera feed at their fingertips.

The URC is the first of the world’s five major club competitions to implement this system, removing the reliance on broadcasters to support TMOs.

Previously, TMOs would need to communicate with a video operator in the broadcast truck to cycle through a number of camera angles to identify the key shot for decisions related to foul play and scoring.

Now, TMOs will be able to use touchscreen monitors to immediately select the most relevant camera angles, reducing delays in finding critical footage. They will also be able to view multiple angles simultaneously, helping to improve the accuracy of decision-making. The technology will also support the trial of the 20-minute red card.

Martin Anayi, CEO, United Rugby Championship, said: “Speeding up the game and improving accuracy around key decisions is paramount in pushing the URC forward. Fans and their teams want the best possible experience during the 80 minutes that means so much and now thanks to our innovative suppliers and the support of IPVanish our league is able to implement this game-changing upgrade.”

Implementation is supported by IPVanish, through our partnership with their parent company VIPRE Security Group, whose branding will appear on broadcast during TMO decisions. As part of their sponsorship of the URC, IPVanish will help promote and support the role of the league’s Television Match Officials. This is a crucial improvement for the URC, benefiting teams, coaches, players, fans and broadcast audiences alike.

Subbu Sthanu, IPVanish General Manager, said: “Getting the call right matters, whether it’s a TMO deciding a game-defining moment or a consumer choosing who to trust with their privacy online. This partnership allows us to connect with a passionate, tech-savvy audience and highlight the importance of privacy and security in day-to-day life.”

The hardware to support the Hawk-Eye system is currently being installed across all 12 Northern Hemisphere clubs, with operations phased in across the first three rounds. All 12 clubs will have matching workstation specifications.

In South Africa, Mobii — specialists in instant video technology — will provide the system, having already managed TMO operations there since 2021.

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