UEFA to use 'semi-automated' offside system in Champions League
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FIFA confirms the system will be in place for the World Cup in Qatar.
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UEFA's semi-automated offside technology
UEFA announced Wednesday that "semi-automated offside technology" will be used from the group stage of this season's Champions League, as well as in next week's Super Cup.
The optical tracking system was trialed at the FIFA Club World Cup in Abu Dhabi in February and last year's Arab Cup. FIFA has confirmed it will be in place for the World Cup in Qatar.
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The data-driven, limb-tracking technology utilizes both dedicated and broadcast cameras around the stadium to give the exact position of players on the pitch, offering match officials precise information within seconds.
UEFA Chief Refereeing Officer Roberto Rosetti explained that "this innovative system will allow VAR teams to determine offside situations quickly and more accurately, enhancing the flow of the game and the consistency of the decisions."
Specialized cameras enable the system to generate 29 body points per player. UEFA said 188 tests have been conducted since 2020.
"The system is ready to be used in official matches and implemented at each Champions League venue," Rosetti confirmed.
It will be introduced in Europe for the first time in the UEFA Super Cup between Real Madrid and Eintracht Frankfurt in Helsinki on August 10.
