For the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Brazil in June 2014, referees will use temporary markers to enforce the regulatory distance during free kicks. FIFA has decided to introduce the use of temporary markers, which were previously used in the Club World Cup in Morocco. The markers are intended to help referees maintain the required distance of 9.15 meters between the ball and the opposing defensive wall when a free kick is awarded near the penalty area.
The temporary spray marks disappear in less than a minute, and the decision has been welcomed by football stakeholders. FIFA President Sepp Blatter mentioned that while there were initial doubts about the system, referees who have used it have been satisfied with the results.
