Premier League Clubs Overwhelmingly Support Retaining VAR System.

Posted 3 months ago

Premier League clubs have overwhelmingly voted 19-1 in favor of keeping video assistant referees (VAR) for the upcoming season.

Wolves initiated a vote on VAR usage for the 2024-25 season by officially submitting a resolution to the Premier League in May.

To remove VAR, at least 14 out of the 20 Premier League clubs needed to vote for it.

However, only Wolves supported the proposal, as they did not receive backing from any other clubs in the Premier League.

Wolves expressed disappointment with the vote's outcome but appreciated the Premier League's dedication to enhancing VAR. The league has faced mounting pressure to adjust VAR, which was implemented in the 2019-20 season.

During the meeting, it was confirmed that semi-automated offsides would be introduced in the autumn. Additionally, in-game VAR announcements will be implemented, similar to those used during the 2023 women's World Cup. These announcements will allow referees to explain post-VAR decisions to fans in stadiums.

Moreover, the Premier League stated that the "high threshold" for VAR officials to intervene in subjective on-field decisions would be upheld.