The Premier League is introducing a semi-automatic offside technology (SAOT) called for the 2024-25 season, developed by Genius Sports and Second Spectrum.
The system utilizes networks of cameras and computer vision to create 3D digital twins of players and the ball, enabling precise offside decisions while still allowing human referees to make the final call.
The technology aims to improve accuracy, consistency, and speed of offside calls, reducing errors and minimizing breaks in the game.
The system has undergone validation by FIFA and testing by the Premier League.
The Premier League also plans to increase transparency by showing replays and explanations on in-stadium screens, holding education sessions, and introducing a TV show featuring referee discussions.
The Premier League aims to reduce overall added time calculations and introduce a 30-second celebration period after goals that will not be added to game time.
SAOT has been used in various competitions, including the UEFA Champions League, FIFA World Cup, and Serie A. LaLiga announced it will introduce SAOT for the 2024-25 season.
Sources: Telegraph, Free Press Journal, Sigorta Haber, Daily Mail, Wired, Guardian, 9to5Mac, Apple Insider, Business Wire, Sportcal, Mirror, GizChina, Sport Industry, Football365, EPL Index.
This article was written in collaboration with Generative AI news company Alchemiq.
