FA Cup Introduces Semi-Automated Offside Tech fa
The technology uses optical player tracking to provide a virtual offside line, reducing the time taken for offside checks and improving the overall experience for fans, with the Premier League planning to introduce in-stadium VAR announcements from next season.
The FA Cup will utilize semi-automated offside technology for the first time in its history during the fifth round, scheduled to take place on March 1, enhancing the in-stadium and broadcast experience with optical player tracking and virtual offside lines.
This technology, which aims to reduce the time taken for an offside check by 31 seconds on average, will be used in all eight fifth-round ties, with the exception of the match between Preston North End and Burnley, as it is the only non-top-flight ground. Video assistant referees will also be employed in all matches, making in-stadium VAR announcements to improve the overall experience.
The introduction of this technology is part of a larger plan by the Premier League to implement it for the 2024-25 season, following successful trials and adoption in major competitions like the World Cup and Champions League. The FA Cup fifth round will serve as a trial for the semi-automated offside technology, with the goal of evaluating its potential introduction in the Premier League.
The use of semi-automated offside technology in the FA Cup marks a significant step towards enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of refereeing decisions, and its potential introduction in the Premier League could have a major impact on the sport as a whole.
