English football says no to VAR overhaul! FA chief confirms plans to block IFAB proposals to extend powers for video assistants

Football Association CEO Mark Bullingham says there isn't "any need" to extend VAR's powers as there are "enough interruptions" in the game already.

FA Stands Firm Against VAR Expansion: Preserving the Flow of English Football

In the ever-evolving world of soccer, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system continues to spark debates among fans, players, and officials. With proposals floating around to broaden its influence, the Football Association (FA) has taken a definitive stance, prioritizing minimal disruptions to the game’s natural rhythm. This decision comes amid ongoing discussions by the International Football Association Board (IFAB), highlighting a cautious approach to technology in matches. As we delve deeper, let’s explore why English football is pushing back against these potential changes and what it means for the future.

  • VAR brought in for 19/20 PL season
  • Lawmakers wanted to extend VAR powers
  • FA CEO rejects proposal

English football says no to VAR overhaul! FA chief confirms plans to block IFAB proposals to extend powers for video assistantsEnglish football says no to VAR overhaul! FA chief confirms plans to block IFAB proposals to extend powers for video assistantsEnglish football says no to VAR overhaul! FA chief confirms plans to block IFAB proposals to extend powers for video assistants

IFAB’s Potential VAR Upgrades Meet Resistance from FA

The body responsible for shaping the rules of soccer, the International Football Association Board (IFAB), has been exploring ideas to enhance the role of VAR, potentially including decisions on corner kicks, penalty awards, and second cautions leading up to the 2026 . Yet, the FA, holding a key position within IFAB, has voiced strong opposition to these expansions.

FA Leadership’s Perspective on Current VAR Implementation

In a recent interview with BBC Sport, the FA’s chief executive expressed contentment with the existing VAR framework. He emphasized that further extensions aren’t necessary, noting the regular dialogues within IFAB about the system’s evolution. “Our view is that we’ve reached a solid balance,” he stated. “While we’re open to reviewing new suggestions as a collective, the consensus is that additional VAR interventions would only add unnecessary pauses to matches, which already face sufficient stoppages under the present setup.”

Recent Developments and Board Dynamics

According to the latest insights, IFAB hasn’t formally received any motions to broaden VAR’s reach, and several members are prepared to resist such initiatives during their November annual gathering. Whispers of sweeping reforms have circulated, but they appear stalled for the foreseeable future. To add context, recent seasons in the Premier League have seen VAR accuracy rates hovering around 95% for key decisions, as per 2023 statistics from official reviews, yet fan dissatisfaction persists, often likening interruptions to unwelcome commercial breaks in a thrilling drama.

The Ongoing Debate: VAR’s Role in Premier League Evolution

Since its introduction in the 2019/20 Premier League campaign, VAR has aimed to rectify clear errors, but expanding its duties has been a topic of discussion for some time. However, with mixed reception from supporters-who frequently voice frustrations over delayed celebrations and altered game momentum-gaining widespread backing for more involvement seems challenging. For now, significant shifts in VAR’s authority remain unlikely, allowing the sport to focus on fluidity rather than frequent reviews.