AI Streamlines VAR in

The Premier League

AI Enters the Field

As the English Premier League (EPL) season kicks off, new updates to the video assistant referee (VAR) system are making headlines. Introduced in 2019 to reduce officiating errors, VAR has faced criticism despite increasing the accuracy of decisions from 82% to 96%, according to the Premier League. Now, artificial intelligence (AI) aims to resolve one of VAR’s biggest drawbacks: long review times.

How VAR Currently Works

VAR is operated by officials at Stockley Park in west London. They analyze real-time replays of match incidents and relay feedback to the on-field referee, helping ensure accurate decision-making. Although the system has shown improvement, its lengthy reviews often frustrate players and fans alike.

The Promise of AI-Powered SAOT

To address delays, the Premier League is introducing semi-automated offside technology (SAOT), previously used during the 2022 FIFA World Cup and Euro 2024. SAOT leverages AI to track players in high detail and speed, reducing offside decision times by up to 31 seconds. Unlike the traditional method of manually drawing lines on the pitch, SAOT projects a virtual curtain to pinpoint offside body parts.

The Technology Behind the System

SAOT relies on computer vision systems capable of tracking 10,000 body points per player and ball at 200 updates per second. Genius Sports, the firm contracted by the EPL for SAOT, uses deep-learning algorithms that mimic human brain decision-making. These algorithms analyze vast video footage from cameras installed at all EPL stadiums.

The Role of Convolutional Neural Networks

Central to SAOT’s function are convolutional neural networks (CNNs), which process images through a multi-stage hierarchy. Early layers detect edges and shapes, while deeper layers form meaningful concepts. These networks are trained to estimate spatial coordinates for body points and the ball in real time.

Before deployment, the AI undergoes intensive training. It is exposed to numerous examples to learn how to interpret game footage. Once trained, it can produce real-time predictions critical for quick offside judgments.

Limitations and the Path Forward

Despite these advancements, Premier League officials recognize that VAR may never be flawless. Tony Scholes, the EPL’s chief football officer, acknowledged this but emphasized that SAOT brings the league closer to perfection. The official rollout is expected in October 2024, pending final evaluations.

Fan opinion remains mixed. While many support improved accuracy, concerns persist about delays, disrupted celebrations, and overemphasis on marginal calls. Wolverhampton Wanderers proposed scrapping VAR entirely during a 2023 club meeting, although the vote failed 19–1.

A New Era for VAR

Artificial intelligence is reshaping sports data analytics, and its role in professional football is just beginning. As AI-driven SAOT becomes a fixture in the Premier League, it promises not only faster decisions but also enhanced trust in officiating. Whether it wins over fans remains to be seen, but the technology marks a significant leap toward a more efficient and fairer game.