A survey by the Football Supporters' Association reveals that 75% of Premier League fans want video assistant referee technology scrapped. Nearly 8,000 supporters from all 20 top-flight clubs responded, with most citing reduced spontaneity in goal celebrations and prolonged decision times. The Premier League acknowledges fan concerns but maintains VAR improves accuracy.
The Football Supporters' Association (FSA) polled just under 8,000 fans of Premier League clubs, with more than half attending at least 15 games per season. Results show 75% oppose VAR, up slightly from 74% in their 2021 survey. Some 90% said it has not improved the matchday experience, 91% believe it harms goal celebration spontaneity, and 94% disagree it enhances TV viewing. Additionally, 72% doubt VAR has made refereeing more accurate, and 74% find decision reasoning unclear under the system. Thomas Concannon, FSA Premier League network manager, told BBC Sport: 'The results show that most fans want VAR removed. We've all lived with VAR for so long now that we've seen the negative impact it's had on the game.' He highlighted frustrations over time delays, accuracy, and lost spontaneity, adding that supporters' voices are often ignored despite being 'the lifeblood of the game.' The Premier League responded: 'We recognise the importance of minimising the impact of VAR on the supporter experience. Premier League research indicates fans are largely in favour of keeping VAR, but improving the way it is used.' Officials note VAR delivers around 100 correct overturns per season, with an accuracy rate of 96-97% and intervention times down 25% recently. In 2024, 19 of 20 clubs voted to retain VAR after Wolverhampton Wanderers' proposal to scrap it failed. FSA has shared findings with the Premier League and Professional Game Match Officials (PGMO) for discussion. While 93% back goal-line technology, 86% worry about VAR expansion, including checks for corners and second yellow cards planned for the 2026 World Cup.