The Premier League on Tuesday revealed that the semi-automated offside technology (SAOT) will be introduced from matchday 32 starting on Saturday, 12 April, Afrosport reports.
This follows non-live testing in the Premier League earlier this campaign as well as its usage in the FA Cup during the fifth round in February.
The semi-automated offside technology helps simplify tight offside calls for officials. It helps automate the major process of analysing the offside calls, with the help of player tracking, and provides viewers real-time virtual graphics to interpret the call.
The Premier League had previously announced that the SAOT would be introduced after the October or November international breaks this season, but it was further delayed due to a change in plans.
A statement from the Premier League said: “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 technology first came into usage at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and has been deployed in the Italian Serie A, La Liga, and the Champions League.
Manchester City and Crystal Palace are the first teams to play in matchday 32, with the semi-automated offside technology expected to make its maiden Premier League appearance at the Etihad Stadium.
