Improving VAR: Addressing Review Time and In-Stadium Experience for Supporters

The Premier League's chief football officer, Tony Scholes, has acknowledged that Video Assistant Referee (VAR) needs improvement. Despite being in use for five seasons, VAR has faced criticism for its inconsistencies and failure to make correct decisions. Scholes has identified two key areas that affect the reputation of VAR: the time it takes for reviews and the poor in-stadium experience for supporters.

According to Scholes, the lengthy reviews disrupt the flow of the game and need to be addressed. Additionally, the in-stadium experience for supporters is deemed inadequate and requires improvement. Scholes highlighted the success of semi-automated offsides in the Champions League, which have reduced decision-making time and maintained accuracy. However, the introduction of this technology in the Premier League is currently not possible due to constraints set by the International Football Association Board (IFAB).

Scholes expressed his personal view that both video and audio should be played live and explained afterwards to enhance transparency. However, the implementation of this approach is uncertain.

Despite the challenges, Scholes emphasized that VAR has proven valuable, with correct interventions in 96% of decisions this season. He also mentioned that VAR has rectified 57 factually incorrect mistakes on the pitch. Scholes expressed support for PGMOL chief Howard Webb and criticized clubs for publicly airing their grievances with the technology, stating that perception can be influenced by misinformation.

In conclusion, Scholes acknowledges the need for improvements in VAR, particularly in terms of review time and the in-stadium experience for supporters. While the introduction of semi-automated offsides is not currently feasible, Scholes believes that both video and audio should be utilized to enhance transparency. Despite criticisms, VAR has significantly improved decision-making accuracy in the Premier League.