FA Cup third round: VAR not in use, what to expect | OneFootball

The FA Cup third round kicks off on Friday night, and VAR will not be used.

The FA said in a statement that VAR and semi-automated offside technology will not operate in the third and fourth rounds, with VAR returning from the fifth round for every tie.

The move is intended to avoid the two-tier officiating seen when early-round ties at Premier League grounds had VAR while others did not, ensuring a consistent approach for all 64 teams regardless of venue.

SAOT will be introduced from the fifth round, and will only be active at matches staged in Premier League stadiums because of the infrastructure required.

Goal-line technology will be in place from the third round at fixtures hosted by Premier League and Championship clubs.

With VAR parked for now, decisions rest with the on-field officials, which may mean fewer stoppages and a little more spontaneity.

Source: Wales Online