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Teams in England’s top flight will have access to new advancements as the Premier League agrees to introduce semi-automatic offside technology
Premier League clubs have made a significant decision to adopt semi-automated offside technology (SAOT) for the upcoming 2024-25 season. This move aims to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of offside decisions, providing a smoother and more consistent experience for players, officials, and fans alike.
Introduction of SAOT in the Premier League
The Premier League will utilize the same SAOT system employed by UEFA in the men's Champions League. This technology, which differs from FIFA's approach, utilizes advanced cameras and software to track player positions and movements on the pitch.
Following unanimous agreement among Premier League clubs, the introduction of SAOT is anticipated to occur after one of the autumn international breaks. The league is currently in discussions with various technology providers to ensure the seamless integration of SAOT into match officiating procedures.
The adoption of SAOT is expected to expedite the decision-making process, saving approximately 30 seconds per offside call. This technology aims to eliminate scenarios where play continues after a potential offside, only for the flag to be raised retrospectively, disrupting the flow of the game.
Statement from the Premier League
In a public statement, the Premier League emphasized the anticipated benefits of SAOT, highlighting its potential to enhance the in-stadium and broadcast experience for supporters. The league aims to provide quicker and more consistent offside decisions, ultimately improving the overall quality of officiating.
"We are pleased to announce the introduction of Semi-Automated Offside Technology (SAOT) for the upcoming Premier League season," said a Premier League spokesperson. "This technology will enhance the speed and accuracy of offside decisions, ensuring a fairer and more consistent officiating process."
Understanding SAOT
SAOT serves as a support tool for video match officials and on-field referees, aiding them in making faster and more accurate offside decisions. The technology utilizes 12 dedicated tracking cameras positioned beneath the stadium roof, along with advanced player tracking algorithms.
SAOT tracks up to 29 data points of each player, including relevant limbs and extremities, to calculate their precise position on the pitch. By combining limb and ball-tracking data with artificial intelligence, SAOT generates automated offside alerts for video match officials. These alerts are validated through manual checks before being communicated to the on-field referee.
Testing and Validation
The SAOT system has undergone rigorous testing at various events, including FIFA tournaments such as the FIFA Arab Cup 2021™ and the FIFA Club World Cup 2021™. These trials have demonstrated the technology's ability to support match officials in making accurate offside decisions in real-time.
As Premier League clubs embrace semi-automated offside technology, fans can expect a more efficient and precise officiating process, contributing to the integrity and fairness of the game. With SAOT set to revolutionize the way offside decisions are made, the 2024-25 season promises to deliver an enhanced football experience for all stakeholders.
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