Why there will be no semi-automated offsides at the start of Premier League season to help speed up VAR process – explained

The Premier League will introduce semi-automated offside technology this season, but the system is not in place despite the campaign having started.

Premier League to introduce new technology

Offsides to be semi-automated this season

New system not in place for start of campaign

THE EXPLANATION

However, the new system has not been introduced in time for the first game of the season, with the campaign having kicked off this week. Instead, the plan is to start using it in the English top flight after one of the international breaks in either September or October.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

The semi-automated offside technology, which was first put to use in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, could shave over 30 seconds off of a VAR check, the Premier League says. It is also expected to be used in FA Cup matches hosted at Premier League stadiums and for the semi-finals and final at Wembley.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

An explanation from the Premier League says “computer vision cameras” will be placed in every top-flight stadium this season.

“These cameras around the ground will track the ball as well as thousands of data points for each player and the ball,” the Premier League adds.

“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 r

WHAT NEXT?

For now, Premier League clubs will have to continue with the manual system that has been in use since VAR was first brought into the division as they await news on when the new technology will finally be in place.