Premier League To Introduce Semi-Automated Offside Technology From Matchweek 32

The Premier League will implement semi-automated offside technology on Saturday, 12 April (Match Round 32). This decision follows non-live trials in the Premier League and live usage in the FA Cup this season. Semi-automated offside technology automates essential parts of the offside decision-making procedure to assist the video assistant referee (VAR).

It allows for more efficient positioning of the virtual offside line, utilizing optical player tracking, and produces virtual visuals to enhance the in-stadium and broadcast experience for fans. The technology preserves the integrity of the process while improving the speed, efficiency, and consistency of offside decision-making.

Premier League’s plan

The EPL has collaborated with PGMOL and the sports data and technology firm Genius Sports to create the new semi-automated offside system.

This follows non-live testing in the league earlier this season, along with live operation in the FA Cup. The offside technology assists officials in positioning the virtual offside line when evaluating close calls, aided by player tracking. It additionally generates virtual graphics for spectators in the stadium and at home. The EPL committee had planned to implement the technology into top-flight matches following the October or November international breaks this season, but those plans were postponed.

A statement from the Premier League said: “Semi-automated offside technology automates key elements of the offside decision-making process to support the video assistant referee (VAR). It provides more efficient placement of the virtual offside line, using optical player tracking, and generates virtual graphics to ensure an enhanced in-stadium and broadcast experience for fans. The technology maintains the integrity of the process while enhancing the speed, efficiency, and consistency of offside decision-making.”

Semi-Automated Offside Technology (SAOT) will utilize a maximum of 30 tracking cameras – functioning at double the frame-rate compared to standard devices employed in broadcasting – to assist the on-field and video match officials in making quicker and more accurate offside decisions.

The cameras are engineered to offer improved positioning of the virtual offside line and generate subsequent virtual graphics to assist fans in the stadium and broadcasters.