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Championship clubs reject VAR-style system for next season

From The Punch · (just now) English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Championship clubs have rejected a proposal to implement a video assistant referee (VAR)-style system for the 2026/27 season.
  • The decision, based on negative feedback from clubs, means the league will continue without video review technology, unlike top European leagues.
  • Concerns over matchday disruption and financial costs influenced the clubs' opposition to the Football Video Support (FVS) system.

Championship clubs have firmly shut the door on the introduction of a VAR-style system, known as Football Video Support (FVS), for the upcoming 2026/27 season. The English Football League (EFL) had considered the proposal, a simplified version of video assistant referee technology, following a presentation by the Professional Game Match Officials. However, the overwhelming sentiment from clubs was negative, leading to the proposal being shelved indefinitely.

While some managers, like Norwich City's Philippe Clement, have previously voiced support for VAR-style systems to improve refereeing accuracy, the majority of Championship clubs prioritized maintaining the existing matchday atmosphere and avoiding the financial implications of implementing such technology. This decision contrasts sharply with top-tier leagues in Spain, Italy, and Germany, which already utilize VAR, and even some second-tier competitions abroad.

moments where I miss VAR to get the right decisions

— Philippe ClementPhilippe Clement, manager of Norwich City, previously expressed a desire for VAR to correct officiating errors.

The Championship will continue to rely on goal-line technology, with a separate assessment planned for its potential extension to League One. The rejection signifies a clear preference among Championship clubs to avoid the complexities and potential disruptions associated with video review, opting instead to maintain the current officiating standards.

with VAR the decisions are better and more fair

— Gerhard StruberFormer Bristol City manager Gerhard Struber had argued in favor of VAR for improved accuracy.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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