Premier League clubs unanimously approve VAR change following Liverpool controversy
Premier League clubs have unanimously approved the introduction of semi-automated offside technology for the upcoming season, following high-profile offside errors in previous matches. This technology, already in use in other elite competitions, is expected to provide quicker and more consistent placement of the virtual offside line, using optical player tracking and producing high-quality broadcast graphics.
The Premier League aims to enhance the in-stadium and broadcast experience for supporters with this new system. Semi-automated offsides were successfully utilized during the 2022 World Cup, leading to its adoption in Serie A in January 2023 and a planned implementation in La Liga for the 2024-25 season.
Premier League clubs hope that this technology will expedite the process of deciding whether an offside offence has occurred in the build-up to a goal, addressing feedback from managers, players, and fans about the duration of decision-making. The decision to introduce semi-automated offside technology follows an incident involving Liverpool’s Luis Diaz, whose goal against Tottenham was incorrectly disallowed for offside, prompting calls for this technological advancement.
However, the new system will not be ready for the start of the season, as the Premier League has parted ways with the current provider and the replacement company’s technology will not be in place for the beginning of the season.
