FIFA will introduce a new semi-automated offside technology at the 2026 FIFA World Cup aimed at speeding up offside decisions and reducing delays.
The system will send a real-time audio alert to assistant referees if a player is more than 10 centimetres offside, allowing officials to raise the flag sooner instead of waiting for play to continue.
FIFA says the technology will only be used for positional offside decisions, while assistant referees will still decide when to stop play.
The world governing body hopes the system will reduce frustration among players and fans and lower the risk of injuries caused by delayed offside calls.
FIFA has also confirmed that AI-powered 3D avatars will be created for all players at the tournament to improve the accuracy of offside decisions and provide clearer animations for viewers.
Source: BBC Sport
