The Premier League has reaffirmed its commitment to implementing Semi-Automated Offside Technology (SAOT) before the end of the current season, citing “significant progress” in testing over recent weeks.
Despite initial plans to introduce the system after one of the autumn international breaks, delays in testing and implementation cast doubts on whether SAOT would be used in the 2024/25 campaign.
However, speaking on Tuesday, the Premier League’s Chief Football Officer, Tony Scholes, expressed confidence in its rollout, emphasizing that the league will only proceed once full operational confidence is achieved.
“We are still testing it but we are making significant progress. Now I’m hopeful that at some point this season we will be able to introduce semi-automated technology,” Scholes stated.
Why SAOT Matters for the Premier League
The semi-automated VAR offside system aims to reduce the average time for offside checks by approximately 31 seconds, speeding up decisions while ensuring greater accuracy.
This technology, which has already been successfully used in UEFA competitions and other top leagues, utilizes tracking cameras and artificial intelligence to provide near-instantaneous offside rulings.
While fans and clubs have expressed frustration over lengthy and controversial VAR decisions, the Premier League hopes SAOT will enhance efficiency and eliminate inconsistencies in officiating.
“We are not going to introduce it if we’ve got any doubts at all with regards to its operation,” Scholes added, reassuring clubs and fans about the system’s integrity.
With officiating controversies continuing to dominate headlines, all eyes will be on the Premier League’s timeline for finally rolling out SAOT and revolutionizing the way offside calls are made.
