SURVEY: OVER 90% OF FANS BELIEVE VAR HAS WORSENED FOOTBALL EXPERIENCE
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By: Fasasi Hammad
A new survey by the Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) has revealed that most Premier League fans believe the video assistant referee (VAR) has negatively affected the matchday experience.
The poll, which drew responses from nearly 8,000 supporters across all 20 top-flight clubs, found that over 90 per cent think VAR has made attending matches worse.
Additionally, 91 per cent of respondents said VAR has reduced the spontaneity of goal celebrations, while 94 per cent disagreed that it has enhanced the television viewing experience.
Speaking to BBC Sport on Monday, Thomas Concannon, the FSA’s Premier League network manager, said the findings reflect widespread dissatisfaction among fans.
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“The results show that most supporters want VAR scrapped. After living with it for years, its negative impact on the game is clear,” he said.
He noted that delays, questionable accuracy, and the loss of spontaneous moments remain major concerns.
“Fans are frustrated by the time decisions take, the perceived lack of accuracy, and the reduced spontaneity. It takes away from what makes football special,” he added.
In response, the Premier League acknowledged the concerns but defended VAR, stressing ongoing efforts to improve its implementation.
“We recognise the need to minimise VAR’s impact on the fan experience. Our research suggests supporters generally favour retaining VAR, but with improvements in how it is used,” the league said in a statement.
The survey underscores a growing divide between football authorities and fans, with many calling for VAR to be scrapped, while the league remains committed to refining rather than removing the system altogether.
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