June 6, (YHEWILL)- English Premier League clubs have overwhelmingly decided to retain the controversial Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system for the upcoming 2024/2025 season in a crucial vote held on Thursday. The vote saw 19 out of the 20 top-flight clubs supporting the continued use of VAR, with Wolverhampton Wanderers being the sole dissenting voice calling for its abolition.
The decision comes amidst mounting frustration and criticism from fans, players, and managers over the implementation of VAR in the EPL. Throughout the 2023/2024 campaign, numerous high-profile incidents involving incorrect VAR decisions sparked outrage and reignited the debate surrounding the technology’s efficacy.
Despite the backlash, EPL officials remain committed to improving VAR, citing its ability to enhance the accuracy of crucial decisions. A statement released after the vote acknowledged the need for enhancements, stating: “While VAR produces more accurate decision making, it was agreed that improvements should be made for the benefit of the game and supporters.”
Wolves, who had proposed scrapping VAR altogether, found themselves at the centre of several controversial decisions last season. Manager Gary O’Neil had been a vocal critic, lambasting the system for its impact on “reputations” and “livelihoods.” However, the club’s motion failed to garner sufficient support from fellow EPL sides.
The Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) expressed disappointment with the outcome, claiming that most fans align with Wolves’ stance. FSA chair, Malcolm Clarke, urged for an ongoing dialogue, emphasising the need to address fans’ concerns over VAR’s detrimental effect on match-day experience.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
