The Premier League is set to reject a proposal to expand the powers of the video assistant referee (VAR) for next season, opting not to adopt the changes approved by the International Football Association Board (IFAB) in February. The decision, which will be formalized at the league's annual general meeting next month, comes after the refereeing body Professional Game Match Officials (PGMO) advised against extending VAR's scope to cover corners and second yellow cards.
IFAB's rule change, which takes effect from June, allows leagues to decide whether to use VAR for these additional decisions. While FIFA has requested its adoption for the 2026 World Cup, the Premier League is expected to follow PGMO's guidance and maintain the current parameters—VAR reviews only goals, penalties, direct red cards, and mistaken identity.
PGMO's primary concern is the potential for significant match delays. Reviewing corner kicks and second yellow cards could lengthen games, alienate broadcast partners, and increase pressure on match officials. A source within the refereeing body stated, "The current VAR system already faces criticism for slowing the game; adding more checks would exacerbate that problem."
Clubs appear to share these worries. Many see little benefit in introducing further interruptions for marginal calls, especially with the Premier League's 38-match season where a single corner is less likely to be decisive compared to a World Cup knockout tie. A club executive noted, "We value the flow of the game. More VAR interventions risk frustrating players and fans alike."
The decision comes amid ongoing VAR controversy. In a recent match between West Ham and Arsenal, referee Chris Kavanagh disallowed a late equalizer by West Ham's Callum Wilson after VAR Darren England spotted a foul on Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya. West Ham intends to lodge a complaint, though the club acknowledges it is unlikely to succeed. PGMO chief Howard Webb defended the decision on Sky Sports' "Match Officials Mic'd Up," asserting that protocols were followed correctly.
In contrast, FIFA has embraced the extended VAR powers for the World Cup, where the stakes are higher and matches already include hydration breaks that stretch playing time. Pierluigi Collina, FIFA's referees committee chair, and President Gianni Infantino believe that an incorrect corner decision could unfairly influence knockout matches.
The Premier League's stance does not close the door on future changes. IFAB is expected to discuss grappling at corners—a persistent issue in the Premier League—after the World Cup, though no proposals are currently on the table. For now, the league prioritizes game flow and consistency.
One agent familiar with the discussions summarized: "The clubs want stability. After a season filled with VAR flashpoints, adding more checks would be a step too far." The AGM vote is expected to be a formality, with the league set to confirm its rejection of the extended powers.
Based on reporting from The Guardian.
