This article contains adult content that may be inappropriate for minors. Please confirm that you are 18 years or older to continue. This article contains images or details that some readers may find disturbing. Reader discretion is advised. A survey conducted by the Football Supporters Association (FSA) among nearly eight thousand fans, of which just over half attend more than 15 home games per season, revealed how unpopular the VAR system has become, despite the Premier League claiming it has led to a greater number of correct decisions. When asked if they support the use of VAR, 76 percent responded negatively, with over 70% disagreeing that the system improved the overall accuracy of referees' decisions. The opinion that the video assistant referee system has made football less enjoyable was nearly unanimous – 97% – while over 90% disagreed that it improved the game experience. "The results show that the majority of fans want VAR to be removed. People are frustrated with the time it takes, frustrated with the accuracy, and frustrated with the reduced spontaneity. It takes away what football should be and what those special moments are," said Thomas Concannon, manager of the Premier League network at the FSA. People are frustrated with the time it takes, frustrated with the accuracy, and frustrated with the reduced spontaneity. The system was introduced in the Premier League seven years ago, and one of the frequent complaints is that it is more suited to viewers than to those in the stadium, who often do not know why there are interruptions in the game. However, the survey revealed that 94% disagreed that VAR makes watching football on television more enjoyable. In response, the Premier League stated that the survey "suggests that fans broadly support the retention of VAR, but with a better way of using it." However, the prospects for any immediate changes to the rules seem unlikely. In 2024, 19 of the 20 clubs in the English top division decided to keep VAR, with only Wolverhampton voting against it, having been the latter to propose the vote. For VAR to be abolished, at least 14 of the 20 Premier League clubs would need to vote in favor of its removal, following a new proposal from one of the teams in the top division. In the next World Cup, the scope of VAR will be further expanded, including decisions on corner kicks and second yellow cards. Until now, VAR referees could only intervene in goals, penalties, direct red cards, and potential identity changes.
Football Supporters Association Thomas Concannon remains central to this story.
Football Supporters Association Thomas Concannon remains central to this story.
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