The 2022 Qatar World Cup introduced a lot of the footballing world to semi-automated offside technology (the abbreviation is SAOT, for those who are too lazy to write four words). It was praised for how swift the decisions were made and how its’ decisions were communicated to the viewers in a clear and conclusive manner. Two of the biggest criticisms of Video Assisted Refereeing (VAR, for those who are too lazy to write three words) were both the time it took to make a decision and how inconclusive the replays could make the situation seem. Therefore, semi-automated offside technology quickly became the new trend that leagues are rushing to implement.
There were already rumblings in October that a vote was being held for Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga clubs to decide if they wanted semi-automated offside technology, but now we have our confirmation: “Semi-automated offside technology is coming in the next season [of 2025/26],” DFB’s head of referees Knut Kircher confirmed, as captured by ran.de.
There have been further discussions about improving the use of VAR. Specifically, the DFB is “intensely discussing”, via Kircher, making stadium announcements to clarify why VAR decisions have been made. However, they are waiting for FIFA to carry out some scheduled tests before making any decision.
Well, Bayern Munich fans, as well as all the other fans from the Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga, can certainly get excited for faster, more conclusive and hopefully more accurate offside decisions next season. As well as any other additions the DFB thinks of before now and the summer.
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