When AI Cameras Mistake a Referee’s Bald Head for a Football: A Scottish Match Mishap

Scottish fans recently witnessed a unique football match where an AI camera on the sidelines mistakenly identified the referee's bald head as the ball, obsessively following the linesman throughout the game.

To improve live‑event experience, Inverness club adopted Pixellot’s AI camera for real‑time HD video, aiming to automatically track the ball’s position and reduce the need for manual camera operation.

Amid a resurgence of COVID‑19 cases, European leagues have been playing empty‑stadium matches streamed online, leaving fans at home with a diminished atmosphere. Teams, broadcasters, and leagues are therefore seeking ways to enhance the on‑site feel.

One week before the match, Inverness announced the use of the AI camera for all Scottish Championship games, promising viewers a clear view of the action’s centre and less cumbersome camera work.

Season‑ticket holders receive an email with a seat‑code to access live streams on ICTTV; non‑ticket fans can purchase a single‑match pass for £9.99.

AI Camera Challenge – The Bald Linesman

During the first live match, the AI system encountered an unexpected obstacle: a bald linesman whose bright scalp, amplified by sunlight, confused the camera, causing it to treat the head as the ball.

Whenever the linesman appeared in the frame, the AI would lock onto his head, mistaking it for the ball and following his movements, despite attempts to recalibrate.

The club had previously boasted that their AI tracking could deliver crystal‑clear live streams to every season‑ticket holder’s home, ensuring fans missed nothing despite the pandemic‑induced restrictions. However, the broadcast fell short, prompting widespread criticism on social media, with fans lamenting that the AI camera “ruined the entire match” and joking about needing to put a hat on the referee.

It remains uncertain whether future matches will continue using this AI technology unless rapid improvements are made, or else the bald linesman may need a hat or wig to avoid further mishaps.