 "Explained: What is the semi-automated offside technology set to be introduced in the Premier League?")
The Premier League is set to introduce Semi-Automated Offside Technology (SAOT) starting from Saturday, 12 April (Match Round 32). This move aims to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of offside decision-making. This comes after extensive non-live testing of the technology in the Premier League and live implementation in the FA Cup this season.
What is Semi-Automated Offside Technology?
Semi-Automated Offside Technology, or SAOT, is an advanced system designed to assist the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in making offside calls with greater speed and precision. It uses optical player tracking technology to automate key elements of the offside decision-making process.
Unlike the existing system where VAR manually determines the kick-point and draws offside lines using multiple camera angles, SAOT will automate much of this process. Once the SAOT-generated outcome has been reviewed and approved by the VAR, the decision will be visually displayed to fans in stadiums and on TV.
Why isn’t the technology fully automated?
SAOT remains “semi-automated” because human input is still necessary. The VAR needs to confirm that the SAOT system has accurately identified the kick-point and the correct players and determine whether an on-field review is required.
How does SAOT work?
SAOT will use up to 30 new cameras placed around Premier League stadiums. Some of these cameras will capture footage at 100 frames per second, which is twice as fast as regular broadcast cameras. The system will track the exact movement of the ball and collect up to 10,000 data points from each player’s body. This will help detect whether an attacking player was offside in the lead-up to a goal.
Once the system flags a possible offside, it will send the information to the SAOT software. The VAR and SAOT operators will then review it before making a final decision.
Who developed SAOT?
The Premier League collaborated with the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) and Genius Sports, a leading sports data and technology company, to develop and implement SAOT in English football.
Why is SAOT being introduced?
The Premier League wants to make offside decisions faster and more accurate. In the past, offside calls have caused delays and confusion, but SAOT will help by reducing waiting times and ensuring more precise rulings.
When will SAOT be implemented?
The technology will debut in Match Round 32, covering the following Premier League fixtures:
Saturday, 12 April
Man City vs Crystal Palace – Etihad Stadium
Brighton vs Leicester – American Express Stadium
Nottingham Forest vs Everton – The City Ground
Southampton vs Aston Villa – St. Mary’s Stadium
Arsenal vs Brentford – Emirates Stadium
Sunday, 13 April
Chelsea vs Ipswich – Stamford Bridge
Liverpool vs West Ham – Anfield
Wolves vs Spurs – Molineux Stadium
Newcastle vs Man Utd – St. James’ Park
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