The impact of VAR in the Premier League in 2024: Was it positive or negative?

The VAR (Video Assistant Referee) has been a controversial tool in the Premier League since its introduction in the 2019-2020 season. Over the years, it has sparked debates about its effectiveness and its influence on the flow of the game. In the 2024-2025 season, VAR remains a central topic in English football, with divided opinions about whether its impact has been positive or negative.

Implementation and evolution of VAR in the Premier League

Introduction of VAR

VAR was introduced in the Premier League to assist referees with critical decisions, including goals, penalties, direct red cards, and cases of mistaken identity. Its goal was to reduce human errors and ensure fairness in the sport. However, from its inception, it has faced criticism from fans, players, and coaches.

Recent changes in VAR usage

In the 2024-2025 season, the Premier League implemented significant adjustments to enhance VAR's efficiency and acceptance:

Semi-automated offside technology: This system was introduced to deliver quicker and more consistent offside rulings using optical tracking of players. It aims to reduce game delays and improve decision accuracy.

Referee announcements in stadiums: For the first time in English football, FIFA-style announcements were trialed during the Carabao Cup semifinals. Referees provided simple explanations for VAR-altered decisions, such as “attacking player number 14 was offside, no goal” or “defender number 17 committed a handball, penalty.” If successful, this could be adopted in the Premier League next season.

Positive impact of VAR

Reduction of referee errors

According to official data, over 100 referee errors would occur per season without VAR. In the most recent season, only five incorrect decisions were recorded, a significant decrease from 11 in the previous year.

Increased transparency and communication

The Premier League introduced a Match Centre account to provide near real-time explanations of VAR decisions, aiming to improve transparency and understanding among fans.

Criticisms and controversies surrounding VAR

Interruptions in game flow

One of the main criticisms of VAR is that prolonged reviews disrupt the natural rhythm of matches, impacting the experience for both players and spectators. While measures have been taken to speed up the process, delays remain a source of frustration.

Inconsistencies in decisions

Despite the technology, controversial decisions have persisted, sparking debates about the consistency and accuracy of VAR. Errors in offside line placements or subjective interpretations of plays have kept the controversy alive.

Opinions from key stakeholders

Players and coaches

Some players and coaches have voiced dissatisfaction with VAR, arguing that it affects the spontaneity of the game and creates confusion. Conversely, others acknowledge its utility in correcting clear errors and ensuring fairer decisions.

Fans

Surveys among fans reveal a predominantly negative reception of VAR, with criticisms focusing on its impact on game flow and decision inconsistencies. Many believe VAR has not been well-received in the Premier League and that improvements are necessary to address these concerns.

The future of VAR in the Premier League

Debates on its continuity

In June 2024, Premier League clubs voted on the future of VAR. Although Wolverhampton Wanderers proposed its removal, the motion was rejected by a 19-1 vote in favor of retaining it. This decision reflects recognition of VAR's benefits alongside an understanding of the need for continuous improvement.

Proposed improvements

The Premier League is committed to enhancing VAR implementation, focusing on:

• Reducing delays: Incorporating semi-automated offside technology and maintaining a high threshold for VAR intervention to provide more consistency and fewer interruptions in game flow.
• Enhancing fan experience: Minimizing delays, offering referee announcements in stadiums after VAR decisions, and providing improved big-screen replays whenever possible to show all VAR interventions.
• Referee training: Collaborating with PGMOL to implement more robust VAR training for referees, emphasizing speed and maintaining accuracy in decision-making processes.