VAR to be used in Premier League from next season
Video assistant referees (VAR) are going to be used in the Premier League from next season onwards. The move comes after the clubs agreed in principle to the introduction of technology. England's top division is now set to make a formal request to the International Football Association Board and FIFA. VAR was earlier used in some of the FA Cup and League Cup matches.
EPL joins other leagues regarding VAR
VAR has already been running in the Bundesliga in Germany and Serie A in Italy. La Liga in Spain and Ligue 1 in France too introduced the technology in 2018/19. Earlier, the Premier League was a bit cautious about it, but has now finally agreed.
VAR testing program to continue
The Premier League issued a statement saying that VAR's testing program would continue for the rest of the season. There will be an emphasis on Saturday afternoons, which generally see several matches being played simultaneously. The way in which VAR decisions will be communicated to fans in the stadium will also be addressed.
2019-20 Champions League, Euro 2020 to have VAR
VAR was also used at the FIFA World Cup 2018. It is next set to be introduced in the Champions League from 2019-20 season alongside the European Championship in 2020. The VAR in the Champions League will start early from the play-off round itself. Besides the Champions League, the UEFA Super Cup too will have VAR from next season.
How does a VAR function?
A VAR team supports the match officials during games. With help of cameras, they keep an eye and consult the on-field referee via headset to help in decision-making. The referee consults the VAR team if he needs help in taking the right decision in certain incidents. The VAR team reviews the footage and guides the referee. Referees can themselves check the footage as well.
