Goalkeepers will be the decision-makers.
Semi-Automated Offside Technology (SAOT) Streamlines Offside Decisions in the Bundesliga
The Bundesliga has introduced a new technology known as Semi-Automated Offside Technology (SAOT) to speed up and improve the accuracy of offside decisions. This system, now in use in both the 1. and 2. Bundesliga, is making a significant impact on the way referees handle offside calls.
SAOT operates by using high-resolution special cameras installed in stadiums to track the real-time movements of players and the ball. The data collected is then processed by artificial intelligence, which calculates the exact positions of players and the ball. When a potential offside situation arises, the system automatically creates a virtual offside line, which the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) reviews and communicates the decision to the on-field referee.
This technology helps referee teams to review potential offside decisions much faster after goals, thus preventing long VAR delays and enabling quicker play resumption on the pitch. By providing precise positional data and faster rulings, it reduces uncertainty around offside calls.
Regarding its impact on goalkeepers' instinctive reactions, SAOT influences the game by making offside checks more prompt and reliable. However, it does not automate offside flags during active play, allowing goalkeepers to rely primarily on their instincts and visual judgement during live play without interruption from automatic signals.
The faster VAR reviews facilitated by SAOT may affect goalkeepers' strategic awareness of when offside situations are likely or have been called, potentially influencing their positioning and reactions indirectly. For instance, Manuel Neuer, a prominent goalkeeper, has been seen instinctively raising his hand to his head when a goal is scored due to potential offside concerns. However, with the new technology, the review of potential offside positions in goals becomes more sophisticated.
The DFL and DFB aim to be very transparent in the use of this technology, and the results of the offside recognition are displayed graphically in an animation in the TV signal. The costs associated with SAOT are manageable and are borne by the Bundesliga clubs.
Florian Badstübner, a Bundesliga and FIFA referee, suggested that goalkeepers may stop raising their arms due to this new technology, while Ansgar Schwenken, Director of Operations and Fans at the DFL, described the technology as a significant simplification. Knut Kircher, CEO of the Schiri GmbH, stated that the system is faster with this technology.
However, detailed information on the costs of SAOT was not provided by the DFL. It is important to note that SAOT does not provide information on the costs in detail.
In conclusion, SAOT uses AI and player tracking cameras to detect offsides faster and more accurately, supporting VAR by providing precise offside visuals and quicker decisions. It does not physically intervene in play or provide automated offside flags that would alter a goalkeeper's immediate instincts. Goalkeepers maintain their instinctive reactions during live play, but the technology influences post-play reviews and game flow, potentially reducing the number of goalkeeper protest gestures.
[1] DFL Deutsche Fußball Liga (2021). SAOT - Semi-Automated Offside Technology [2] FIFA (2021). VAR - Video Assistant Referee
Artificial intelligence, powered by player tracking cameras, is now assisting in offside decisions in the Bundesliga through the use of the Semi-Automated Offside Technology (SAOT). This system, operating alongside VAR, is dramatically improving the speed and accuracy of offside calls, making a significant impact on how referees handle these decisions.
Due to the more sophisticated offside reviews facilitated by SAOT, goalkeepers like Manuel Neuer might adjust their instinctive responses after a goal, such as raising their hands, as the technology reduces uncertainty around offside calls. However, their instincts and visual judgement remain crucial during live play, as automatic offside flags are not provided by this new technology.
