Wolves are pushing for the elimination of VAR from the Premier League for the upcoming campaign.
The Molineux club feels that the decision review system is “undermining the value of the Premier League brand,” as they have been involved in some contentious refereeing decisions this season.
They have submitted a resolution to trigger a vote at the league’s AGM in June and will need 13 of the other 19 clubs to agree with them. Between now and the meeting of the following month, they will probably approach other clubs to solicit support.
However, the Premier League does not believe scrapping VAR is the right way forward.
Wolves said in a statement: “The introduction of VAR in 2019/20 was a decision made in good faith and with the best interests of football and the Premier League at its heart.
“However, it has led to numerous unintended negative consequences that are damaging the relationship between fans and football, and undermining the value of the Premier League brand.
“After giving the resolution considerable thought, and with the utmost respect for the Premier League, PGMOL, and our fellow competitors, we have decided to table it.
“There is no blame to be placed; we are all just looking for the best possible outcome for football, and all stakeholders have been working hard to try and make the introduction of additional technology a success.
“However, after five seasons of VAR in the Premier League, it is time for a constructive and critical debate on its future.
“Our position is that we should remove it starting in the 2024–2025 season because the price we are paying for a slight increase in accuracy is at odds with the spirit of our game.”
Throughout the season, Wolves have felt unfairly treated by several decisions, and Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) chief Howard Webb has frequently called manager Gary O’Neil to offer his apologies.
They believe that the impact of goal celebrations, the duration of VAR checks, the absence of communication within the stadium, the departure from the original intent of rectifying glaring mistakes, and the diminishing authority of the on-field referee as a result of their dependence on VAR are specific areas of concern.
A Premier League spokesperson said: “The Premier League can confirm it will facilitate a discussion on VAR with our clubs at the Annual General Meeting next month.
“Clubs are entitled to put forward proposals at shareholders’ meetings, and we acknowledge the concerns and issues around the use of VAR.
“However, the League fully supports the use of VAR and remains committed, alongside PGMOL, to make continued improvements to the system for the benefit of the game and fans.”
The Premier League, which communicates with the PGMOL regularly, feels that in the absence of VAR, there would be more incorrect decisions, which could further damage the league’s reputation.
