Football fans will more than likely have found themselves discussing (or debating) VAR and the controversies it can cause.
Video Assistant Referee (VAR) is currently used in the Premier League to assist with major decisions such as goals, penalties and red cards. However, despite the criticism it has faced, it’s the lack of it in the Championship that has raised eyebrows over the years.
It’s no secret that the EFL Championship is widely considered one of the most competitive leagues in world football. Regardless of personal opinions on VAR, promotion to the Premier League is estimated to be worth more than £100 million in revenue, thanks to broadcasting rights and increased commercial opportunities.
Despite so much depending on results, refereeing decisions in the Championship are frequently criticised by fans, players and managers alike. Incorrect red cards, missed penalties, and controversial goals can all have a major influence on a match - and over the course of a season, those moments can ultimately affect who secures promotion.
With the stakes on the line, there are many reasons why we believe VAR should be introduced to the EFL Championship. There’s so much to play for, so it’s a fair request to demand greater accuracy - particularly when decisions can have a direct impact on results. A single decision can have a ripple effect, impacting promotion, playoff places or relegation.
It would also provide valuable support for referees. VAR doesn’t replace officials; instead acts as a safety net to correct clear errors. Finally, with the end goal of reaching the Premier League, adapting to VAR earlier could help prepare clubs and players for the demands of the top flight.
Of course, we’re not going to pretend that VAR doesn’t come without its annoyances. There’s no denying we’ve all felt frustrated as it slows down a game or causes long delays while we wait for a decision. And let’s face it, even the most advanced technology isn’t perfect, and this is bound to cause controversy. However, I would argue that improving its implementation rather than removing VAR entirely is the most effective solution.
So, should the EFL have VAR? Absolutely. The Championship involves huge financial and sporting consequences, and its introduction could help to improve fairness and accuracy - something every fan, player, team and manager deserves.