More than 75 per cent of football fans are against the use of VAR, according to a new survey by the Football Supporters’ Association (FSA). The survey of 7,981 fans found that over 90 per cent believe VAR has worsened the match-going experience since its introduction in the 2019-20 Premier League season.
The FSA, the largest supporter group in the country, reported that over 85 per cent of respondents feel VAR makes football less enjoyable, and just over 75 per cent say the reasons for its use remain unclear inside stadiums. Fans also feel that various changes to the system have not brought substantial improvements.
Thomas Concannon, the FSA’s Premier League network manager, said: “These findings back up the FSA’s previous survey in 2021, where fans expressed misgivings about the introduction of VAR. The vast majority are reporting the same concerns five years on – the loss of spontaneity when celebrating goals, and an overall worsening of the matchgoing experience.”
Despite fan frustration, senior sources in major football bodies insist VAR is here to stay, citing improved accuracy. The Premier League highlighted its VAR Improvement Plan, including in-stadium referee announcements and semi-automated offside technology, and noted that VAR intervenes less frequently in the Premier League than in other European leagues.
A Premier League spokesperson said: “The Premier League recognises the importance of minimising the impact of VAR on the supporter experience. … VAR delivers more correct decisions. In recent seasons, there have been around 100 correct VAR overturns per season.” The FSA plans to discuss the findings with the Premier League and PGMO.
