Semi-automated offside technology (SAOT) is set to make its debut in English football during the FA Cup fifth-round ties, with seven of the eight matches incorporating the system. The technology will be used in all fixtures hosted at Premier League stadiums, except for the Championship clash between Preston and Burnley.
The Premier League, which has collaborated with technology provider Genius Sports to develop the new system, plans to implement SAOT within its competition later this season. The primary aim is to reduce the average length of offside checks by 31 seconds, a significant efficiency improvement.
What is Semi-Automated Offside Technology (SAOT)?
SAOT uses a combination of cameras and artificial intelligence to track player movements and ball trajectories with higher precision than traditional VAR. By automating much of the offside decision-making process, it promises faster, more accurate offside calls. This advancement is hoped to improve the flow of the game while retaining the accuracy and fairness VAR strives for.
Premier League’s Ambitions with SAOT
Tony Scholes, the Premier League’s Chief Football Officer, recently expressed confidence in the technology. “We believe it to be the best system,” he stated. “The system we’ve adopted is not only accurate but also future-proof, ensuring it will remain relevant as the game evolves.”
The system was first introduced by UEFA in the Champions League at the start of the 2022/2023 season and is now making its way into domestic English football.
When Will the Technology Be Used?
The FA Cup fifth-round ties will take place over the weekend of March 1-2, with the semi-automated offside technology being used in all matches hosted at Premier League stadiums.