A new survey has revealed growing frustration among football fans, with a strong majority opposing the use of VAR in the Premier League.
The poll, conducted by the Football Supporters’ Association, gathered responses from nearly 8,000 supporters and highlights a deepening divide between fans and the technology.
Fans Reject VAR
According to the findings, around 75% of fans do not support the use of VAR, while more than 97% said it has not made watching football more enjoyable.
Over 90% also believe it has worsened the matchday experience, with many pointing to long delays and lack of clarity as key frustrations.
Delays and Confusion
One of the biggest complaints is the time taken to reach decisions. Fewer than 3% of fans feel VAR decisions are delivered within a reasonable timeframe, despite ongoing efforts to improve speed.
Supporters also expressed dissatisfaction with communication, though more than half backed the idea of in-game announcements to explain decisions.
“Killing the Joy”
Perhaps the most striking finding is that over 90% of fans believe VAR has taken away the spontaneous joy of celebrating goals.
Fans say the uncertainty caused by reviews has fundamentally changed the emotional experience of watching football.
Thomas Concannon of the FSA noted that these concerns are not new, with similar frustrations raised in previous surveys.
Mixed Support for Limited Use
While overall opposition remains high, some fans do support limited use of VAR.
- A slight majority support its use for red card decisions
- Many oppose its role in offsides, fouls, and handballs
- Most are against using it for second yellow cards
There is also cautious support for a challenge-based system that would limit how often VAR is used during matches.
Future Concerns
More than 85% of fans are worried about potential expansion of VAR, including proposals to use it for reviewing corner decisions—an idea opposed by over 70%.
However, one form of technology continues to receive strong backing: goal-line technology, supported by more than 93% of respondents.
Interestingly, more than 80% of fans say they now prefer watching football in lower leagues where VAR is not used.
