Huge change to VAR that fans desperately want being considered by Premier League officials in biggest revamp since the system was introduced
- PGMOL is considering the biggest overhaul of VAR since its introduction
- Fans wanted to hear the decisions of referees and other officials
- Is the North London Derby the best match in the Premier League? Listen to It’s All Kicking Off! podcast
Top Premier League officials are considering the biggest overhaul of VAR since its introduction, making a huge change that football fans want.
VAR has been part of top-flight football since the 2019-2020 season, but reactions from players and team staff have been mixed, while supporters on the pitch and at home feel left out.
The Professional Game Match Officials Board (PGMOL) believes that one simple change in protocol could create a better experience for those following games.
Fans cannot hear conversations between match officials as they ponder decisions using VAR – but PGMOL is now considering allowing those in the stadium to hear these conversations for greater transparency.
Reporter Rob Dorsett told Sky Sports: ‘It’s complicated because IFAB has never allowed live audio between match officials to be broadcast to the public. But PGMOL would like that to happen.
PGMOL is considering the biggest overhaul of how VAR works since its introduction
Referee chief Howard Webb admitted that the information provided on the pitch needs to be improved
‘Howard Webb says he thinks there is room within the existing rules for referees when they are called to the screen to review a decision, to then explain to the public if they are changing that decision, why they are changing it .
‘Next season may be the first time we see match officials and the referee talking directly to people in the stadium to explain their decisions.’
Webb mentioned the possible move in relation to the controversial calls regarding a trio of penalties at Nottingham Forest against Everton on April 21 – with the PGMOL chief admitting that the referee and VAR team should have assessed one of their claims.
When asked about the information available on the ground, Webb said: “It does need improvement, doesn’t it.
“When you hear the clips of shows like this, it makes sense what’s happening; it all becomes clear. We are looking at ways to improve the experience in the stadium.”
He added: ‘It would be very useful if the referee could talk to all the people in the stadium – [to explain] the reasoning.’
It would follow a similar format to the decision-making process seen at the 2023 Women’s World Cup – although the explanations will come first, to try to avoid fans fuming over the details once the decision is confirmed.
ESPN report that an explanation would only be announced if a monitor on the field is consulted.
It would follow a similar process to that of the 2023 Women’s World Cup
VAR checks that do not result in the on-field decision being overturned remain out of earshot for supporters.
The change still needs to be approved by the Premier League, but that will likely be a formality.