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Referees Question Offside Tech After Lengthy Decision Delays

2/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

Premier League referees are losing confidence in the semi-automated offside technology from Genius Sports.
The concern followed a five-and-a-half-minute delay in Carabao Cup semi-final between Newcastle United and Manchester City.
Referees say they are blamed for delays because the system struggles to deliver timely decisions.
The situation has prompted officials to urge clubs to consider changing providers.
Hawk-Eye, which manages other VAR services, operates alongside Genius Sports at Stockley Park.

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Story summary

Premier League referees are losing confidence in the semi-automated offside technology from Genius Sports.
The concern followed a five-and-a-half-minute delay in Carabao Cup semi-final between Newcastle United and Manchester City.
Referees say they are blamed for delays because the system struggles to deliver timely decisions.
The situation has prompted officials to urge clubs to consider changing providers.
Hawk-Eye, which manages other VAR services, operates alongside Genius Sports at Stockley Park.