The Premier League is set to introduce semi-automated offside technology this weekend, aiming to enhance the speed, efficiency, and consistency of the offside decision-making process. This technology, developed in collaboration with PGMOL and Genius Sports, will provide more efficient placement of the virtual offside line based on optical player tracking and produce virtual graphics for an enhanced viewing experience for supporters.
The system will automate key elements of the offside decision-making process for VAR, suggesting a “kick point” and creating offside lines on the second rear-most defender and relevant attacker. The VAR will still need to confirm the decision and review the outcome. The SAOT system uses up to 30 cameras around Premier League stadiums to track player movements and determine offside calls.
Despite the automation, the technology is semi-automated, requiring human input to ensure accurate identification of players and body parts involved in the offside decision. The SAOT system will not change the accuracy of decision-making but enhance the speed and efficiency of the process. Decision visuals will be distributed to fans in the stadium and media once the outcome has been reviewed and confirmed by VAR.
The SAOT system will maintain current standards with “thicker” lines to avoid more controversial “toenail” offsides and decrease delays for close offside calls. While most offside decisions are expected to be quicker with SAOT, VAR still has the option to manually draw lines in certain edge cases. Overall, this new technology aims to improve the overall officiating process in the Premier League.
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