According to the British newspaper, The Mirror, significant changes are in store for the 2024/25 Premier League season. The publication has outlined four major alterations, including the introduction of semi-automated offside technology, the abolition of the winter break, the advance notice of starting lineups by 75 minutes, and six adjustments to the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system.
Change 1 – Introduction of Semi-Automated Offside System
The technology, already familiar in European competitions, will be welcomed into the Premier League. The league explains that “this technology, based on player-tracking data, will assist the VAR in making decisions more quickly.”
Change 2 – Six VAR Enhancements
- Maintaining a high threshold for VAR intervention to provide consistency in matches and minimize disruption to the flow of the game;
- Reducing match interruptions, primarily through the implementation of semi-automated offside technology;
- When a decision is changed after VAR intervention, the referee will explain the reason on the field and, where possible, replay the decision on big screens following all VAR-assisted calls;
- Working with PGMOL (Professional Game Match Officials Limited) to implement more comprehensive VAR training for improved consistency in officiating;
- Improving communication for increased transparency;
- Organizing engagement activities with fans and stakeholders to further clarify the role of VAR in the game.
Change 3 – No Winter Break
Clubs will no longer have a one-week break in January. Instead, the opening round of fixtures will be postponed by a week to ensure players get adequate rest over the summer.
Change 4 – Starting XIs Announced 75 Minutes Before Kickoff
To align with continental competitions, the Premier League will now announce team lineups 75 minutes before games instead of the previous 60-minute notice.