English Premier League clubs have decided to continue using the video assistant referee (VAR) system in the league, with only Wolves voting in favor of scrapping the technology at the annual general meeting on Thursday.
Wolves initiated a vote on the use of VAR in the 2024-25 season by submitting a resolution to the Premier League in May, advocating for the removal of video assistant referees.
For VAR to be removed, 14 of the 20 Premier League clubs needed to vote in favor. However, Wolves did not garner enough support from other clubs in the top flight.
A statement by the Premier League following Thursday’s vote confirmed the decision: “Premier League clubs today voted in favor of continuing to operate VAR in the Premier League. While VAR produces more accurate decision-making, it was agreed that improvements should be made for the benefit of the game and supporters.”
The decision highlights the commitment of Premier League clubs to enhancing the accuracy and fairness of officiating, while also recognizing the need for ongoing improvements to the VAR system.