The Premier League will employ semi-automated off-side technology this month

The Premier League said Tuesday that semi-automated offside technology would be used for the first time in the league later this month, following successful FA Cup testing.

Following non-live testing in the Premier League and live operation in the FA Cup fifth round last month, it will be used for matchday 32, which begins on April 12.

The adoption was overwhelmingly agreed by Premier League clubs last year. Despite problems during testing, the system was expected to be operational by December.

“Key components of the offside decision-making process are automated by semi-automated offside technology to assist the video assistant referee (VAR),” the league stated in a statement.

“With optical player tracking, it more effectively places the virtual offside line and creates virtual graphics to give fans a better in-stadium and broadcast experience.”

The Premier League went on to say that it maintains the integrity of the offside decision-making process while increasing its speed, efficacy, and consistency.

The technology was used at last year’s Asian Cup, the 2022 World Cup, and the Champions League.