75% of fans oppose VAR in Premier League, says FSA

A recent survey conducted by the Football Supporters’ Association reveals that three-quarters of Premier League fans are not in favor of the video assistant referee system. Nearly 8,000 supporters from the 20 teams in this season’s top flight participated in the poll, sharing their opinions on the impact of VAR. The findings indicate that 90% of respondents disagree with the notion that VAR has enhanced the overall matchday experience, while 91% believe the technology has diminished the natural excitement of scoring goals.

“The results show that most fans want VAR removed,” said Thomas Concannon, the FSA’s Premier League network manager. “We’ve all lived with VAR for so long now that we’ve seen the negative impact it’s had on the game. People are annoyed about the time it takes, the accuracy, and the reduced spontaneity. It takes away from what football is meant to be and those special moments.”

The Premier League has responded to the survey, acknowledging the need to minimize VAR’s influence on the supporter experience. In a statement, the league noted that while fans generally support keeping VAR, there is a push to refine its implementation. The survey highlights that the majority of participants are regular attendees, with over half reporting they watch at least 15 matches annually.

Additional survey data reveals further concerns: 72% of fans dispute that VAR has improved refereeing accuracy, and 74% find the reasoning behind VAR decisions unclear. Eighty-six percent worry about expanding VAR’s responsibilities. Notably, 72% oppose using VAR to verify corner awards, and 52% are against its role in checking second yellow cards—both of which will be introduced at the 2022 World Cup.

Despite the opposition, the Premier League maintains that VAR increases the likelihood of correct decisions. They cite an accuracy rate of 96-97% for refereeing calls since VAR’s implementation, while time delays have decreased by 25% over the past two seasons. However, a recent FA Cup match between Aston Villa and Newcastle United, which did not use VAR, showcased three major refereeing errors, earning it praise as a compelling case for the technology.

VAR made its debut in the Premier League during the 2019-20 season. The league claims that around 100 VAR corrections occur each season, preventing incorrect goals, penalties, or red cards. They emphasize that referees’ decisions remain the priority, making VAR less disruptive compared to leagues like the Champions League.

While the majority of fans advocate for VAR’s retention, the survey suggests a strong desire to eliminate it. To scrap the system, 14 of the 20 Premier League clubs would need to vote against it following a new proposal. In 2024, 19 clubs supported keeping VAR, with Wolves being the sole exception, having initiated the debate themselves.