The Premier League, in conjunction with the FA, and EFL are set to introduce a major change to Video Assistant Referee (VAR ) technology, MySportDab reports.
Initially deployed to curb excessive human errors during officiating, VAR appeared to has outlived its usefulness, becoming a source of contention than a solution.
From match delays to wrongly allowed and disallowed goals, the effectiveness of the technology has sparked debate among fans and pundits, creating more problems instead.
To address the immanent concerns by fans and stakeholders, English football authorities, comprising the Premier League, FA, and the EFL, are set to introduce a new technology – the Semi-automated Offside Technology – to arrest the deficiencies of the VAR.
The bodies issued a statement to affirm the decision to deploy a new system. The statement, as shared by the Mirror, reads:
“Following successful live operation in the Emirates FA Cup, the Premier League will look to implement the system later this season
“The Semi-Automated Offside Technology will provide more efficient placement of the virtual offside line, based on optical player tracking, and produce virtual graphics to ensure an enhanced in-stadium and broadcast experience for supporters.”
Just like the VAR, the Semi-automated Offside Technology is intended to check offsides, goals, fouls, and other on-field decisions with a superior and more accurate player tracking system.
According to reports, the technology will first be used in the seven FA Cup matches that will be held in the Premier League Stadia.
The Premier League are also set to experiment it in Premier League matches before the end of the season before full deployment in the 2025-26 season.
