The Premier League clubs will decide the future of Video Assistant Referees (VAR) in the league from next seasons. All the clubs are slated to inform about their decision next month in the AGM. Wolverhampton Wanderers has officially submitted a resolution and thus a vote will be taken. A majority of 2/3 of votes will be required to scrap the VAR from next season in Premier League.
From the 20 members, at least 14 clubs need to vote for scrapping VAR. Wolves claimed though the VAR was introduced in good faith, but the unintended negative consequences are damaging the relationship between fans and the game.
Why no VAR?
“The price we are paying for a small increase in accuracy is at odds with the spirit of our game,” read a Wolves statement. The Premier League too acknowledged that there are concerns but it continues to support the technology. The VAR was introduced back in 2019 to help the on-field match officials make correct decisions.
As for the upcoming 2024-25 season, the clubs have already voted to bring in the semi-automated offside technology.
The VAR has been regularly inconsistent in bringing out decisions. Be it Wolves, West Ham or Nottingham Forest, all the manages have questioned some of the controversial decisions made by VAR which has significantly played a crucial role in altering the outcome of a particular game.
In a statement Wolves said: “After five seasons of VAR in the Premier League, it is time for a constructive and critical debate on its future. 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.”
“The Premier League can confirm it will facilitate a discussion on VAR with our clubs at the annual general meeting next month. Clubs are entitled to put forward proposals at shareholders’ meetings and we acknowledge the concerns and issues around the use of VAR. However, the league fully supports the use of VAR and remains committed, alongside PGMOL [Professional Game Match Officials Limited], to make continued improvements to the system for the benefit of the game and fan,” said a Premier League spokesperson.
