Premier League: semi-automated offside technology to be used from 12/04/2025 (Matchday 32)

Semi-automated offside technology (or SAOT) will be used in the Premier League from Matchday 32 of the 2024-25 English top flight (on 12 and 13/04), announced the league on 01/04/2025.

"Semi-automated offside technology automates key elements of the offside decision-making process to support the video assistant referee (VAR). 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," explained the league.

The introduction of this technology, decided "in collaboration with PGMOL", is being carried out through the British company Genius Sports, which specialises in data management, video streaming and sports betting integrity services. SAOT was previously introduced in the fifth round of the Emirates FA Cup (from 28/02 to 03/03) and tested without any real application in the Premier League in March 2025.

2024-25…