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Football: VAR to be scrapped?

By Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw

Since its introduction in 2019, VAR (Video Assistant Referee) has proved somewhat controversial amongst clubs and fans, particularly during this season.

So much so that Wolverhampton Wanderers have submitted a formal resolution to the English Premier League (EPL) Annual General Meeting to be held in Harrogate on 6 June 2024 to scrap the system.

The Club in a statement has remarked that, although VAR was introduced in “good faith” it has led to “numerous unintended negative consequences that are damaging the relationship between fans and football.”

The Club added:

The price we are paying for a small increase in accuracy is at odds with the spirit of our game.”

The EPL itself has acknowledged the concerns about VAR but fully supports the technology and will continue to work with the referees’ association to make improvements.

For the resolution to pass, a two-thirds majority of the twenty member clubs of the EPL is needed. That is, fourteen clubs, and it is reported that fourteen clubs are apparently in favour of the change!

Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw may be contacted by e-mail at ‘This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.



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