Premier League VAR Set to Undergo a Significant Change

English clubs have mutually agreed to give a green flag to enhancement of the Premier League VAR technology

Premier League VAR has often been the subject of discussion in the football world and among the fans. Despite being introduced to make certain calls related to the on-field decisions more accurate and trustworthy, VAR has often resulted in frustration for the fans and players involved and is been often subjected as an invention that has chunk out the emotion from the game.

As its understandable that technology can mistakes sometimes, but it is more about how the Premier League has used it has been the culprit of dissatisfaction among those involved with the sport on and off the pitch. However, indulging into how things can be made better in regards to VAR, the Premier League and the clubs involved in it have mutually agreed to introduce marquee changes in how offside decisions are made using the VAR technology.

The VAR is set to be enhanced by the use of semi-automated technology that will aid it in making more accurate and real-time offside calls during crucial moments in the match. The English league’s hierarchy has further outlined how this change will affect the viewing experience and accuracy of the calls made –

“It will provide quicker placement of the virtual offside line and high-quality graphics to ensure an enhanced broadcast and stadium experience”.

The enhanced system is tailored to work through a certain number of 12 cameras installed inside the match venue, which would be able to keep an eye on the ball from every possible angle. The similar cameras will be working in synchronization with the data points to track the player’s movements through various phases of the match.

The semi-automated technology was already used in some of the major tournaments

The Premier VAR enhancement in the form of semi-automated technology is already being successfully used in tournaments like – the Champions League, Club World Cup, UEFA Euros and the World Cup. This signifies that it is a proven and tested method when it comes to making quick and precise offside decisions.

As per the reports, the offside calls can be made in seconds, saving a significant chunk of time and keeping the momentum of the games intact. The technology would be using three-dimensional pictures. However, the old method of deciding the offside would only be reverted to if by chance the 12 cameras inside the stadium have not been able to get a clear image of the particular match angle due to any blockages of vision.

The new technology would not be introduced instantly and for the remaining games of this season. As things stand it is much likely to be slated after the autumn international break of the 2024-2025 Premier League season. The way things have panned out in the league in recent times as few harsh VAR calls have cost certain teams important points, one hopes that this change will only make things better.

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