EPL: Semi-Automated Offside Technology To Be Used Next Season
In the hope of reducing the time it takes to make VAR decisions, a semi-automated offside technology will be introduced in the Premier League next season.
Top-flight clubs unanimously agreed to introduce the system, at a shareholders’ meeting on Thursday.
The move is expected to cut the average length of a VAR check for offside by about 30 seconds
“The technology will provide quicker and more consistent placement of the virtual offside line, based on optical player tracking, and will produce high-quality broadcast graphics to ensure an enhanced in-stadium and broadcast experience for supporters,” a Premier League statement said.
The semi-automated offside technology was used by FIFA at the 2022 Men’s World Cup in Qatar after running a series of trials, including at the Club World Cup.
It is also used in the Champions League and in Italy’s Serie A.
Referees will still need to make calls on subjective elements, such as whether a player in an offside position is interfering with play.
The Premier League has not disclosed the technology partner it will work with, and it is understood that no contracts have yet been signed.
The intention is to introduce the technology after one of the international breaks in September, October,, and November.
