Why introduction of semi-automated offside technology in Premier League has been delayed
Premier League clubs voted unanimously in April to introduce semi-automated offside technology (SAOT) into the competition from the 2024/25 season
The PA news agency reports that the launch of semi-automated offside technology in the Premier League may be postponed until next year.
Although the technology was approved by clubs in April, its implementation was initially anticipated following one of this autumn’s international windows.
While October had been identified as a likely launch date, that timeframe will now be missed, and mid-November is also looking increasingly uncertain.
The technology might not be introduced until winter.
During a meeting held in central London on Thursday, league officials aimed to “manage expectations” among clubs regarding the launch date, as testing of the system continues.
The Premier League believes that the new technology could reduce the average VAR check time for offside decisions by 31 seconds.
Additionally, clubs received a largely positive update on officiating and were reminded of their responsibilities concerning player behavior.
Notably, there was no opposition from clubs regarding the league’s expenditure of over £45 million on legal costs.
There is an understanding that this spending is necessary to uphold the league’s regulations, representing a small fraction of the £10 billion the league is projected to earn in television revenues over the next three years.
On August 14, Genius Sports partnered with England’s top flight, providing technology aimed at reducing delays during VAR checks in matches.
According to the Premier League, “Computer vision cameras powered by Genius Sports will be installed in every Premier League stadium.
“These cameras around the ground will track the ball as well as thousands of data points for each player and the ball.”
“When a match-defining moment occurs, such as a penalty, a goal or a red card, the technology will track to see if any attacking player involved in the build-up to the incident was offside.
“If a player receives a ball in an offside position, the technology will send an alert to the officials in the VAR Hub.
“They will check that the point of contact with the ball and automated offside line have been correctly recorded.
“The VAR will then inform the on-field officials if an offside has been recorded.”
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