The English Premier League is said to have reached a stunning decision on the controversial use of VAR technology – a move that could have far-reaching implications for the future of the game. In a closed-door meeting held this week, the league’s executives were reported to have debated the merits and drawbacks of VAR, before reaching a definitive conclusion on whether the technology should be retained or removed from the competition.
Despite its rejection by the clubs at the Annual General Meeting on Thursday, the Premier League will continue using video assistant referee (VAR) technology.
The idea to eliminate VAR arose after a controversy-laden season, particularly driven by Wolves. The proposal, initiated by Wolves, aimed to discard VAR following a year marked by contentious decisions. However, the motion did not receive the anticipated support, with Wolves standing alone. Major clubs like Manchester United and Manchester City did not back the proposal, resulting in a decisive 19-1 vote in favor of retaining VAR.
In an official statement, the Premier League confirmed the continuation of VAR, highlighting its role in improving decision-making accuracy despite the controversies. The statement, reflecting the consensus at the Annual General Meeting, read: “Premier League clubs today voted in favor of continuing to operate video assistant referees in the Premier League.” The decision included a commitment to making necessary adjustments to enhance the system for the sport and its fans.
During the meeting, extensive discussions underscored the importance of the Premier League and its clubs in refining VAR and improving its perception. Six key improvement areas were identified:
1. Maintaining a high threshold for VAR intervention to ensure consistency and minimize game interruptions, thereby preserving the game’s integrity.
2. Reducing stoppages by implementing semi-automated offside technology (SAOT) and maintaining a high intervention threshold for VAR, aiming to streamline decision-making and keep the game fluid.
3. Enhancing the fan experience by minimizing delays, providing in-stadium announcements from referees after VAR decisions, and increasing the visibility of big screen replays of all VAR interventions when possible. This aims to keep fans informed and engaged during matches.
4. Collaborating with the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) to create a comprehensive VAR training program to improve consistency and accuracy, ensuring better decision-making by officials.
5. Increasing transparency and communication about VAR through expanded updates from the Premier League Match Centre and broadcast content such as “Match Officials Mic’d Up.” This also includes a communication campaign to help fans and stakeholders better understand VAR’s role in the game.
6. Utilizing technology to improve broadcast graphics, enhancing the experience for fans both in the stadium and watching on broadcasts. This includes the quicker and more consistent placement of the virtual offside line, supported by optical player tracking technology.
Additionally, the Premier League and PGMOL intend to advocate for more flexibility in the Laws of the Game from the International Football Association Board (IFAB) to allow live video and audio broadcasts during VAR reviews. This initiative aims to enhance transparency and provide real-time insights into VAR decisions for fans.
The statement also announced the introduction of Semi-Automated Offside Technology (SAOT) in autumn 2024. This new technology aims to reduce delays and improve the accuracy of offside decisions, significantly enhancing the football viewing experience.
