GAMBLOG UK - WE ARE ENGLAND - Smart Ball Technology Not For World Cup

Fifa Opinion
"We consider the technology is not yet ready.

The logical consequence of this is that we will not used in Germany in 2006 FIFA general secretary Urs Linsi said."
(Fifa - No Smartball For WC Statement)

Adidas Reply
"We knew of this decision in advance of course, so we are not surprised, nor are we disappointed.

The tracking system can be applied to any ball that we manufacture so it has not affected the development or production of the ball to be used at the World Cup finals which we believe will be the best ball ever used in the tournament.

We are still developing the tracking system and when we are convinced it is 100 percent bullet-proof, 100 percent perfect, then that will be the time for it to be used said Thomas van Schaik, Adidas spokesman."