MLS's Offside Dilemma: Why the League is Behind on Tech

MLS was one of the first leagues to use VAR technology. They started using it in August 2017. This was after the league's All-Star Game. But, MLS has not adopted the virtual offside line or semi-automated offside technology. These are used by most other leagues that use VAR. This choice has led to some questionable calls. For example, a recent offside decision against St. Louis CITY SC. The goal was disallowed in a 2-1 loss to Columbus Crew SC. Replays suggested the goal should have been allowed. But, the VAR officials couldn't make a clear decision. So, the referee wasn't called for a review. MLS has said they are looking into these technologies. But, they are not in use yet. One big reason is the lack of uniform camera setups across MLS venues. This could make the technology inconsistent. Eight MLS clubs do not have primary use of their home stadiums. This makes it hard to install the needed cameras. Five of these clubs are owned by someone other than the stadium's main tenant. The situation is even more complex for New York City FC. They play home games at Yankee Stadium and Citi Field. These stadiums were built for baseball, not soccer. The seating and camera angles are not ideal for soccer. Installing the needed cameras would be a big challenge. This is especially true for semi-automated offside technology. It requires many cameras around the stadium. The Premier League's issues with VAR offside decisions might also be a factor. The Premier League is very popular in the U. S. Their early problems with VAR were well-known. This could make MLS hesitant to adopt similar technology. There has been little fan pressure on MLS to add offside technologies. So, the league may not feel rushed to make changes. Yet, they are still exploring these options. The situation could change when NYCFC moves to its own soccer-specific stadium in a couple of years.