Why VAR could be scrapped next season as clubs set to vote

A screen shows the VAR review for a possible Everton penalty, that was consequently overruled, during the English Premier League football match between Everton and Liverpool at Goodison Park in Liverpool, north west England on April 24, 2024.[AFP]

Premier League clubs will be given the chance to scrap VAR from next season when they vote on the controversial review system at their annual general meeting next month.

Wolves have submitted a resolution to abolish VAR to the Premier League, triggering a vote of the top flight’s 20 teams on June 6.

The Molineux club said VAR is “undermining the value of the Premier League brand” after another season marred by a host of debatable decisions.

In order for VAR to be axed by the Premier League, 14 of the 20 clubs will have to vote against it.

Wolves are expected to canvas other clubs in order to gain support before the meeting.

VAR was introduced in the Premier League in 2019 with the aim of helping referees avoid clear and obvious errors that had marred matches in the past. But there have been numerous controversies surrounding the technology this season as Premier League managers and fans grow increasingly vocal in their disdain for the system.

“The decision to table the resolution has come after careful consideration and with the utmost respect for the Premier League, PGMOL (body responsible for refereeing games) and our fellow competitors,” said Wolves statement.

“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 impact of VAR on goal celebrations, the length of time taken for checks and a lack of communication in the stadium are all issues that have irked supporters and cited by Wolves as reasons for scrapping the system.

Speaking after Newcastle had Anthony Gordon’s penalty appeal rejected by VAR in their 3-2 defeat at Manchester United on Wednesday, Magpies boss Eddie Howe backed the bid to remove the system.

“I thought it was a penalty. I’ve always been in an era where the referee makes the decision and I’d still back that, even if it means we don’t get penalties like today. I want more power with referees,” he said.

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino was more cautious.

“Next season we have to see if we can improve how we use VAR. For me it’s not in or out, it’s about improving how we use it,” he said.