Premier League to use semi-automated offside technology this season
The Premier League will use semi-automated offside technology for the first time in matches starting from 12 April.
The system made its debut in English football in seven of the eight FA Cup fifth round ties in March.
Following additional non-live testing in the Premier League, the technology has now been cleared for use in the top-flight.
Semi-automated offside technology is designed to improve the accuracy of tight offside calls by making parts of the process automatic.
Virtual offside lines and graphics will be used, alongside optical player tracking for those watching at home or in a stadium.
Semi-automated offside technology will be introduced by the Premier League for Matchweek 32, commencing on Saturday 12 April
— Premier League (@premierleague) April 1, 2025
Read more about the introduction 👇
VAR officials check the system has followed the process correctly before confirming the decision to the referee, who then informs the players.
The technology was first used at the elite level in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and has also featured in the Champions League, Serie A and LaLiga.
"Semi-automated offside technology automates key elements of the offside decision-making process to support the video assistant referee (VAR)," a Premier League statement said:
🚨 BREAKING: The Premier League will introduce semi-automated offside technology on Saturday 12 April (Match Round 32).
— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) April 1, 2025
It follows non-live testing in the Premier League and live operation in the FA Cup this season.
🗣️ “Semi-automated offside technology automates key… pic.twitter.com/h3yRTvJVbe
"It provides more efficient placement of the virtual offside line, using optical player tracking, and generates virtual graphics to ensure an enhanced in-stadium and broadcast experience for fans.
"The technology maintains the integrity of the process while enhancing the speed, efficiency, and consistency of offside decision-making."
Using 30 cameras around a stadium, the technology is set to be used in close offside decisions and will help confirm or suggest a change to the on-field decision made by the referee.
The Premier League has worked with Professional Game Match Officials Ltd and Genius Sports to develop the technology.
It will debut in the Premier League when Manchester City host Crystal Palace in the early kick-off on 12 April, with other fixtures that day including Arsenal's home game against Brentford.
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