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Premier League clubs to meet in Harrogate to consider scrapping VAR

Thursday, 16 May 2024 10:49

Clubs will decide whether to scrap VAR at a meeting next month.

Harrogate will host a crucial meeting between Premier League clubs next month as they consider scrapping VAR.

Representatives from the league’s twenty clubs will be meeting at an unnamed Harrogate location on 6th June.

And the main item on the agenda is the notion of scrapping VAR (Video Assistant Referees) after a series of controversial decisions throughout the 23/24 Premier League season.

VAR was originally introduced in 2019 with the intention of improving on-field refereeing decisions by giving officials access to video technology.

But it continues to be a controversial topic of discussion.

The idea of abolishing VAR is being spearheaded by Wolverhampton Wanderers - one of the clubs on the receiving end of contentious calls this season.

A club statement said:

“There is no blame to be placed — we are all just looking for the best possible outcome for football — and all stakeholders have been working hard to try and make the introduction of additional technology a success.

“However, after five seasons of VAR in the Premier League, it is time for a constructive and critical debate on its future.

“Our position is that the price we are paying for a small increase in accuracy is at odds with the spirit of our game, and as a result we should remove it from the 2024/25 season onwards.”

The vote would require a two thirds majority (14-6) to dispense with VAR.

A Premier League spokesperson said:

“The Premier League can confirm it will facilitate a discussion on VAR with our clubs at the annual general meeting next month.

“Clubs are entitled to put forward proposals at shareholders’ meetings and we acknowledge the concerns and issues around the use of VAR.

“However, the league fully supports the use of VAR and remains committed, alongside PGMOL, to make continued improvements to the system for the benefit of the game and fans.”

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