Premier League clubs in England today voted to continue operating VAR in the Premier League, recognizing its role in producing more accurate decision-making while agreeing that improvements are necessary for the benefit of the game and its supporters.
The decision emerged from thorough discussions at the Annual General Meeting, where it was acknowledged that PGMOL, the Premier League, and the clubs all have crucial roles in enhancing the system and its reputation.
During the meeting, six key areas for improving VAR were identified. Maintaining a high threshold for VAR intervention was deemed essential to deliver greater consistency and fewer interruptions to the game’s flow. Additionally, reducing delays in the game was a priority, with the introduction of semi-automated offside technology (SAOT) and the high threshold for VAR intervention expected to play significant roles in this regard.
Improving the fan experience was also a focal point. This will involve reducing delays, making in-stadium announcements from referees after a post-VAR decision change, and, where possible, enhancing big screen replays to include all VAR interventions. In conjunction with this, PGMOL will implement more robust VAR training to improve consistency, emphasizing the speed of the process while preserving accuracy.
Increasing transparency and communication around VAR decisions will be achieved through expanded communications from the Premier League Match Centre and broadcast programming such as “Match Officials Mic’d Up.” Moreover, a fan and stakeholder VAR communication campaign will be launched to clarify VAR’s role in the game, helping participants and supporters better understand and accept the technology.
In April, it was confirmed that Semi-Automated Offside Technology will be introduced in autumn 2024. This technology will provide quicker and consistent placement of the virtual offside line using optical player tracking and will produce high-quality broadcast graphics to ensure an enhanced in-stadium and broadcast experience for supporters.
The Premier League and PGMOL will continue to lobby the International Football Association Board (IFAB) to allow greater flexibility in the Laws of the Game, advocating for live video and audio broadcasts during VAR reviews.
