Survey shows Premier League fans overwhelmingly against VAR

More than three-quarters of Premier League supporters want the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system scrapped, with many believing it has a negative effect on the matchday experience, according to a survey by the Football Supporters’ Association.

The poll, which involved nearly 8,000 fans—including over half who attend more than 15 home games per season—highlighted widespread dissatisfaction with VAR, despite the Premier League maintaining that it has led to more correct decisions.

Seventy-six percent of respondents said they do not support VAR, while more than 70 percent disagreed that it has improved refereeing accuracy. Almost 97 percent felt VAR has made football less enjoyable, and over 90 percent said it has diminished the overall matchday experience.

Thomas Concannon, the FSA’s Premier League network manager, said the survey results clearly show fans want the system removed.

“People are annoyed about the time that it takes, annoyed about the accuracy, and annoyed about the reduced spontaneity,” he said. “It does take away from what football is meant to be and what those special moments are about.”

VAR was first introduced in the Premier League seven years ago. Critics argue it caters more to television audiences than stadium-goers, who are often unaware of the reasons behind delays. The survey also found that 94 percent of fans disagreed that VAR improves the television viewing experience.

The Premier League, however, said research shows that while fans want improvements in VAR, they largely favour keeping it. Immediate changes seem unlikely, as any abolition would require a new proposal and at least 14 of the 20 clubs voting in favour.

At the upcoming World Cup, VAR’s scope will expand to cover decisions on corners and second yellow cards, in addition to goals, penalties, direct red cards, and mistaken identity cases.