The Premier League will implement semi-automated offside detection technology before the end of the year.
At a meeting of top-flight teams on Thursday, clubs unanimously agreed to implement the technology next season, which, according to sources, will reduce the average time of a VAR check for offside by 31 seconds.
The Premier League stated that the technology would be introduced following one of the autumn international breaks, which could be in September or November.
“The technology will provide quicker and 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,” the NFL said in a statement.
FIFA, the global governing body of football, first deployed semi-automated offside technology for the 2022 men’s World Cup in Qatar.
It is anticipated that the technology will also be used in FA Cup ties hosted by Premier League clubs next season, as well as the semi-finals and final at Wembley Stadium.
The Premier League has not announced its technological partner, and no contracts are believed to have been signed as of yet.
The measure should boost decision-making confidence and raise the likelihood that the VAR will not miss any possible offsides.
If the technology fails, manual crosshair placement will remain available as a backup.
Referees will still need to make subjective decisions, such as whether a player in an offside position is interfering with play or whether a player is onside when a defensive player touches the ball and the contact is deemed deliberate.
According to reports, extensive testing and research of the new technology was carried out this season.
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