Semi-automated offside set to be introduced in Premier League | OneFootball

The Premier League has announced it will introduce semi-automated offside technology into the competition from April 12.

After a long-winded process and numerous test events, including the FA Cup Fifth Round, the technology will finally be making its debut during gameweek 32 in just over a weeks time.

Semi-automated offside technology [SAOT] was first used in elite-level football at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, and has been in use in the Champions League since 2022-23, in Serie A since January 2023 and was brought in by La Liga for the start of the current campaign.

The technology helps officials place the virtual offside line when analysing tight calls, with the help of player tracking. It also produces virtual graphics for viewers in the stadium and at home.

During one of the FA Cup Fifth Round ties between Bournemouth and Wolves, both teams had to wait over eight minutes for a VAR check, featuring two possible handballs and an offside. The goal was eventually ruled out for offside, but the VAR was unable to use SAOT and had to revert to the old technology.

In a statement from the Premier League, it reads:

“The Premier League will introduce semi-automated offside technology on Saturday 12 April (Match Round 32). This follows non-live testing in the Premier League and live operation in the FA Cup this season.

“”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.

“The Premier League has worked in collaboration with PGMOL and sports data and technology company Genius Sports to develop the new semi-automated offside technology system.

The announcement of its introduction marks almost a year since Premier League clubs unanimously voted to introduce semi-automated VAR offside technology for the 2024-25 season.