Is It Time to Rethink VAR: Keep, Remove, or Redefine Its Scope?

The ongoing debate over whether football would be better without the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system has intensified, particularly following the recent FA Cup fourth round where VAR was absent. As fans, players, and managers reflect on the impact of VAR on the game, many express a desire for a return to a more fluid and spontaneous style of play, while others argue that VAR is essential for ensuring accurate decisions in crucial moments.

Last updated: 10 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

This past weekend's FA Cup matches served as a reminder of football without VAR, leading to a mixed bag of outcomes. The absence of the technology sparked discussions about its necessity and effectiveness, especially after a series of controversial decisions, including disallowed goals and missed penalties. As the Premier League continues to grapple with VAR's implementation, the question of its value grows increasingly relevant.

Key takeaways

• VAR was absent during the FA Cup fourth round, causing debates about its necessity.
• Managers and players have expressed conflicting views on the impact of VAR on match flow and decision-making.
• Controversial decisions in recent matches have reignited discussions about the effectiveness of officiating in football.

Timeline: how we got here

VAR has been a contentious topic in football since its introduction into the Premier League for the 2019–2020 season. The FA Cup has seen VAR implemented in later rounds, with the technology not used in the third and fourth rounds during the 2022–2023 campaign. Key milestones include:

• 2019: VAR introduced in Premier League matches.
• 2022: VAR usage in the FA Cup altered to begin in the fifth round.
• February 2023: Controversial decisions during matches reignite the debate over VAR's effectiveness.

What’s new vs what’s known

New this week

This past weekend highlighted the absence of VAR during the FA Cup, with notable incidents such as an offside goal and a missed handball penalty, prompting renewed discussions about the technology's role in football.

What was already established

Since its introduction, VAR has faced criticism for causing delays and confusion during matches, leading many fans to question whether the technology enhances or detracts from the game. Managers like Eddie Howe and Unai Emery have expressed mixed feelings about its necessity.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For fans, the absence of VAR during the FA Cup may have provided a nostalgic reminder of unmediated excitement, although it also led to significant controversy over officiating standards. Households watching the matches experienced the fluctuating emotions that arise from sudden goals and subsequent disallowed decisions.

Businesses and jobs

Football clubs are increasingly focused on ensuring accurate officiating to maintain fan engagement and trust. Mismanagement of VAR can affect attendance and viewership, impacting revenue streams for clubs.

Policy and regulation

The FA and Premier League continue to evaluate VAR's role, with discussions on improving officiating standards and the potential for reform in how VAR is applied during matches. Upcoming consultations may lead to changes in how VAR is integrated into future competitions.

Numbers that matter

• 3 goals ruled out due to VAR decisions in the recent matches, showcasing the technology's impact on game outcomes.
• 2 major incidents of missed penalties that reignited debates about officiating standards.
• 4 Premier League managers have publicly expressed their opinions on VAR's impact this season.

Definitions and jargon buster

• VAR: Video Assistant Referee, a technology used to review decisions made by on-field referees.
• Offside: A rule violation occurring when an attacking player is in front of the last defender when the ball is played to them.
• Penalty: A free kick awarded for a foul committed within the penalty area.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Fans can expect ongoing discussions about VAR, particularly as the Premier League season progresses and more matches are played. The upcoming rounds of the FA Cup may also prompt further analysis of officiating techniques.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the football season continues, clubs and governing bodies will likely reassess the effectiveness of VAR and whether to implement changes. The results of these discussions may shape future regulations and guidelines.

Signals to watch

• Regular announcements from the FA and Premier League on VAR-related policy changes.
• Feedback from fans and clubs regarding officiating experiences during matches.
• Upcoming consultations aimed at improving the use of VAR in competitions.

Practical guidance

Do

• Engage with your local club about their stance on VAR and officiating standards.
• Stay informed on discussions surrounding VAR to understand its evolving role in football.

Don’t

• Ignore the implications of VAR decisions on match outcomes and fan engagement.
• Dismiss the importance of officiating standards in maintaining the integrity of the game.

Checklist

• Monitor upcoming FA and Premier League announcements regarding VAR.
• Discuss with fellow fans about your experiences during matches.
• Consider how VAR decisions impact your enjoyment of the game.
• Stay updated on managerial opinions regarding VAR's effectiveness.
• Reflect on how the absence of VAR influenced recent matches.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

As discussions around VAR continue, it's important to recognise the potential for further controversies and disagreements over its use. Opinions vary widely among players, managers, and fans, and the risk of miscommunication or inconsistent application of VAR remains a concern. Future policy changes may not satisfy all stakeholders, and the debate over VAR's role in football is likely to persist.

Bottom line

The current discourse around VAR highlights the complexities of ensuring accurate officiating in a high-paced sport like football. While many fans crave the spontaneity of pre-VAR football, the push for technological accuracy in officiating remains strong. Balancing these competing desires will be crucial as the discussion evolves in the coming months.

FAQs

What are the main arguments against VAR?

Critics of VAR argue that it causes long delays, interrupts the flow of matches, and leads to confusion over decisions, affecting the overall enjoyment of the game.

How has VAR impacted officiating standards?

While VAR aims to improve accuracy in officiating, some argue that it has made referees overly reliant on technology, resulting in a decline in their decision-making confidence.

Will VAR continue to be used in future competitions?

As of now, VAR is expected to remain a part of major competitions, including the Premier League and FA Cup, although discussions about its application and potential reforms are ongoing.