Premier League clubs make decision on scrapping VAR for next season

Premier League clubs have voted in favor of the continued use of VAR after a proposal was put forward by Wolves.

Last month, Wolves introduced a motion to abolish VAR following a season filled with controversial decisions and debates.

The motion was set to be discussed at the Premier League’s Annual General Meeting on Thursday, June 6.

It has now been announced that the other clubs have unanimously decided to vote against the motion, with the proposal being dismissed by a 19-1 vote.

It’s understood that clubs requested improvements to the usage of VAR, with reporter Ben Jacobs stating that the vote ‘proved a healthy forum for debate and positive discussion’.

A Premier League statement reads: “Premier League clubs today voted in favour of continuing to operate VAR in the Premier League. While VAR produces more accurate decision making, it was agreed that improvements should be made for the benefit of the game and supporters.

“As part of thorough discussions at the Annual General Meeting, it was agreed that PGMOL, the Premier League and clubs all have important roles to play in improving the system and its reputation.”

In addition, the Premier League has confirmed that, following discussions between Premier League clubs, there will be a focus on six main areas for improving VAR next season.

1. Maintaining a high threshold of VAR intervention to deliver greater consistency and fewer interruptions to the flow of the game.

2. Reducing delays to the game, primarily through the introduction of semi-automated offside technology (SAOT) and the maintained high threshold for VAR intervention.

3. Improving fan experience through a reduction in delays, in-stadium announcements from referees after a post-VAR change of decision, and where possible, an enhanced offering of big screen replays to include all VAR interventions.

4. Working with PGMOL on the implementation of more robust VAR training to improve consistency, including an emphasis on speed of process while preserving accuracy.

5. Increasing transparency and communication around VAR – including expanded communications from Premier League Match Centre and through broadcast programming such as Match Officials Mic’d Up.

6. The delivery of a fan and stakeholder VAR communication campaign, which will seek to further clarify VAR’s role in the game to participants and supporters.