EFL Clubs Reject VAR Challenge System Proposal for Championship
EFL clubs have rejected a proposal to introduce a VAR challenge system for managers in the Championship. Filmogaz.com understands the idea was put forward by PGMO, the refereeing body for English football.
The measure was demonstrated at last month’s annual EFL meeting. Clubs gave feedback after the presentation. As a result, the EFL will not use VAR next season.
Decision for next season
There will continue to be no VAR across the EFL next term. The Championship will retain goal-line technology only.
Clubs cited practical concerns in their response to the VAR challenge system proposal. Those concerns influenced the final outcome.
Supporters’ attitudes to VAR
A Football Supporters’ Association survey captured fan opinion at the end of March. It sampled 8,000 supporters from the 20 Premier League clubs.
| Question / Finding | Result |
|---|---|
| Opposed to VAR use | 75% |
| Agree VAR improved matchday experience | 10% (90% disagreed) |
| VAR harmed spontaneity of goal celebrations | 91% |
| VAR makes watching on TV more enjoyable | 6% (94% disagreed) |
Ongoing VAR changes
Despite low popularity, VAR will remain in the Premier League. Lawmakers have broadened VAR’s remit ahead of the summer.
- Competitions may use VAR to check corners from this summer.
- Corner checks are optional and must not delay the kick.
- VAR protocol now covers incorrectly-awarded second yellow cards.
- VARs will not advise referees to award non-shown second yellow cards.
Practical limits
Lawmakers stress corner checks should only catch obvious errors. The checks must be brief and avoid disrupting play.
The EFL’s rejection means managers in the Championship will not have a formal VAR challenge tool next season. The decision reflects club views and supporter sentiment.
