Semi-Automated Offside Set to Revolutionize the 2026 World Cup: Inside the Tech with Referee Micheal Barwagen

The 2026 World Cup will debut semi-automated offside technology, using 12 cameras tracking players at 50 frames per second to speed up decisions and reduce errors. Assistant referee Micheal Barwagen, part of the first all-Canadian officiating crew at a men's World Cup, explains how the system simplifies his role during high-stakes fixtures. Barwagen has worked closely with referee Drew Fischer and fellow assistant Lyes Arfa at major tournaments like the 2024 Olympics and the Club World Cup. The...