A major survey reveals over 75% of Premier League fans oppose VAR, citing ruined goal celebrations, despite the league defending its accuracy

LONDON: More than 75% of Premier League fans do not support the continued use of the Video Assistant Referee system.

A survey by the Football Supporters’ Association found 75.7% of respondents are against VAR in its current form.

The online poll conducted between February 26 and March 23 gathered views from almost 8,000 top-flight club fans.

A overwhelming 91.7% said VAR had removed the spontaneous joy of celebrating goals.

FSA Premier League network manager Thomas Concannon said the findings back up misgivings expressed in a similar 2021 survey.

The FSA has shared these results with the Premier League and referees’ body PGMOL to discuss the findings.

In response, the Premier League defended VAR for leading to more accurate decisions.

A league spokesperson stated VAR produces around 100 correct overturns per season on otherwise incorrect goals or penalties.

They argued the Premier League applies a high threshold for intervention, making VAR less intrusive than in European competitions like the Champions League.

Refining VAR use remains a key focus for the league and PGMOL, who will continue engaging stakeholders.

The Premier League added its own research indicates fans largely favour keeping VAR but improving its application.

 The Sun Malaysia