Background on Mikel Arriola and His Role
Mikel Arriola, the commissioner of the Mexican Football Federation (FMF), has been instrumental in modernizing Mexican football. His commitment to implementing advanced technology aims to enhance the fairness and reliability of game decisions, including offside calls.
Introduction of the Semi-Automated Offside Technology (SAOT)
In the kickoff of Clausura 2026, Liga MX has introduced a semi-automated system for offside decisions, drawing inspiration from European leagues like the Premier League in England and the UEFA Champions League.
Details of the SAOT System
The Semi-Automated Offside Technology (SAOT) consists of a network of 28 cutting-edge cameras installed in each of the 17 stadiums in Mexico’s top division. This technology, powered by GeniusIQ artificial intelligence, generates a precise and real-time digital replica of every play.
How SAOT Works
Sean Conroy, Genius Sports’ Executive Vice President for North America and the provider of this service, explains that SAOT produces massive 3D data outputs. This allows for a complete game recreation and automates the offside decision process.
SAOT’s Relationship with VAR
It is essential to note that SAOT complements the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system rather than replacing it. According to a Liga MX statement, FIFA regulations do not allow the software to make the final decision independently. The system generates evidence, but a final validation from VAR operators is still required.
SAOT’s Limitations
The SAOT system will not be used for other potentially controversial plays, such as penalties, goals, or red cards. Its primary focus is on offside decisions, streamlining the review process and making it faster and more straightforward.
Implementation and Investment
Following a testing phase during the Apertura 2025 tournament, Liga MX is now the first in America to implement this technology. The annual investment for SAOT in Mexican football amounts to 1.43 million US dollars.
Expert Opinion
Horacio Elizondo, a former Argentine referee and current director technical of FMF’s Referees Commission, highlights the benefits of SAOT: “The implementation of SAOT makes the review process much easier and quicker.”
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the Semi-Automated Offside Technology (SAOT)? SAOT is a system of 28 advanced cameras installed in Mexican football stadiums that uses artificial intelligence to generate real-time digital replicas of plays, aiding in offside decision automation.
- How does SAOT work with VAR? SAOT complements the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system. It generates evidence for offside decisions, but a final validation from VAR operators is still needed before making the call.
- What types of plays does SAOT cover? SAOT focuses primarily on offside decisions and does not address other potentially controversial plays, such as penalties, goals, or red cards.
- When and where was SAOT implemented? Liga MX introduced SAOT at the start of Clausura 2026, making it the first league in America to adopt this technology.
- What is the investment for SAOT? The annual investment for implementing SAOT in Mexican football is 1.43 million US dollars.
