Survey finds over 75 per cent of Premier League fans oppose VAR | OneFootball

More than three quarters of Premier League supporters oppose VAR, a Football Supporters’ Association survey has found.

According to ExpressAndStar.com, nearly 8,000 fans took part, with just over half attending more than 15 home games a season.

More than 97 per cent rejected the idea that VAR makes watching football more enjoyable, and over 90 per cent said it has not improved the matchgoing experience.

Asked directly if they support VAR, 75.71 per cent said no, while more than 70 per cent felt it has not improved the overall accuracy of refereeing decisions.

Lengthy checks remain a major gripe. Fewer than three per cent agreed decisions are reached in a reasonable time, and most do not believe reviews are any quicker despite efforts to speed them up.

Over 90 per cent felt VAR has stripped away the spontaneous joy of goal celebrations. In-game explanations introduced this season are backed by more than half of respondents, yet communication still frustrates many.

A narrow majority support VAR for red card reviews, but there is opposition to its use for offsides, fouls and handballs in the build-up to goals. Goal-line technology is strongly backed by more than 93 per cent.

More than 85 per cent expressed concern about expanding VAR. The Premier League is set to canvass clubs on reviewing corners next season, and over 70 per cent oppose that step.

Most are also against checks for second yellow cards, though a limited challenge system drew slightly more support than opposition. More than 80 per cent now prefer watching games without VAR.

Source: ExpressAndStar.com