The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system, implemented in the Premier League at the start of the 2019/20 season to aid referees with crucial decisions, has become a source of constant debate and frustration. Now, its future in the league hangs in the balance as clubs prepare to vote on its potential removal.
All 20 Premier League clubs will have a say in the fate of VAR at the league’s annual general meeting on June 6th. This development comes after Wolverhampton Wanderers officially submitted a proposal to remove the technology. Wolves advocate for it’s removal as early as this summer, ahead of the 2024/25 season.
Wolves Statement Calls for “VAR Constructive Debate”
In a statement, Wolverhampton Wanderers emphasized that the proposed change is not meant to place blame. They acknowledge the efforts of all stakeholders involved in implementing it and improving its effectiveness. However, the statement highlights the need for a critical discussion about it’s future impact on the game.
“There is no blame to be placed — we are all just looking for the best possible outcome for football,” the statement reads. “Our position is that the price we are paying for a small increase in accuracy is at odds with the spirit of our game, and as a result we should remove it from the 2024/25 season onwards.”
While Wolves have taken the lead in calling for VAR’s removal, it remains unclear if they will garner enough support for the proposal to pass. The motion requires votes in favor from at least 14 clubs.
According to BBC, despite acknowledging concerns surrounding VAR, the Premier League itself has indicated its support for the technology. A league spokesperson confirmed that a discussion on it will take place at the upcoming meeting. The statement further emphasizes the league’s commitment to working alongside PGMOL (Professional Game Match Officials Limited) to improve the its system.
VAR Blunders Fuel Debate
Recent controversies involving VAR have undoubtedly fueled the debate about its effectiveness. These include:
PGMOL chief Howard Webb proposing a change to allow referees to explain decisions via stadium PA systems.
Nottingham Forest’s scathing statement criticizing officiating after a match against Everton, suggesting a pro-Luton Town bias in the VAR room (both clubs were battling relegation at the time).
The highly controversial decision in Tottenham’s win over Liverpool, where a legitimate goal by Luis Diaz was incorrectly ruled offside. PGMOL later admitted to a “significant human error” in this instance.
The upcoming vote by Premier League clubs will determine the fate of VAR in the English top-flight. Will the technology be scrapped entirely, or will ongoing efforts to refine the system lead to its continued use? Only time will tell.
