The Premier League has voted to implement semi-automated offside technology next season, a move that is expected to reduce the number of decisions made using VAR. This decision was made at a Premier League Shareholders’ meeting, with all clubs agreeing to introduce the new technology.
The semi-automated offside technology was successfully used at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, but the Premier League had previously resisted its introduction. The technology will not be ready for the start of the 2024-25 season but is expected to be implemented before Christmas.
The new system uses multiple cameras mounted underneath the roof of the stadium to track the ball and up to 29 data points of each individual player, 50 times per second, to calculate their exact position on the pitch. This will provide quicker and more accurate offside decisions, enhancing the overall stadium and broadcast experience for supporters.
The introduction of this new technology comes in response to ongoing controversies with VAR in the Premier League. Liverpool, for instance, raised concerns this season when VAR incorrectly upheld an offside decision against Luis Diaz at Tottenham Hotspur.
This significant step forward in improving the accuracy and efficiency of offside decisions in the Premier League is expected to make a positive impact on both players and fans alike.
