New Delhi: English football is set for a major officiating change as semi-automated offside technology will be used for the first time in domestic competitions. The technology will debut in the FA Cup fifth round, which is scheduled for the weekend of 1 March. Seven of the eight matches will be played at Premier League stadiums, where the system will be active.
The Football Association confirmed the decision, stating that the system aims to make offside decisions faster and more efficient without compromising accuracy.
This development comes after the Premier League unanimously approved the use of semi-automated offside technology for the 2024-25 season. Initially, it was set to be introduced in October 2024, but the plan was delayed to allow further testing.
The FA Cup will now serve as a trial phase before the system is fully implemented in the league later in the season. UEFA has already used the technology in the Champions League since 2022, and now English football is following suit.
Premier League to follow FA Cup in using new offside system
BREAKING: Semi-automated offside technology will be utilised in all seven matches at Premier League stadiums for the FA Cup fifth round 🚨 pic.twitter.com/4MQhxkqO1S
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) February 13, 2025
The semi-automated offside system relies on optical tracking to place the virtual offside line quickly and accurately. While it does not change how offside calls are made, it reduces the time needed for decisions and improves the viewing experience for fans inside stadiums and watching on television. The FA stated that the new system will help make the game smoother by cutting delays linked to offside reviews.
With VAR already in place across English football, this technology is expected to speed up controversial decisions that often cause frustration for players, managers, and supporters. The FA Cup has often been used to introduce new officiating tools, and this is another step towards modernising the sport.
All eight fifth-round ties will have video assistant referees, including Preston’s match at Deepdale. In addition to the semi-automated offside system, referees will also make in-stadium announcements regarding VAR decisions, offering more clarity to fans.
The Premier League plans to introduce the system later in the season, and the FA Cup will provide a chance to see how effective it is. If successful, it could soon become a permanent feature in English football.
Semi-automated offside technology will debut in the FA Cup fifth round, enhancing decision-making speed. The Premier League plans to introduce it later this season after further testing in English football. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
