Howard Webb: VAR Errors Down 80% Amid Ongoing Debate

Howard Webb, the referees’ chief announced an 80% reduction in video assistant referee (VAR) errors this season in the Premier League. Since VAR’s introduction five years ago, the system has sparked ongoing debate regarding its implementation and effectiveness. The independent Key Match Incidents panel reported 31 incorrect VAR decisions during the 2023-24 season.

Despite past controversies, Premier League clubs voted 19-1 in June to retain VAR after Wolverhampton Wanderers initiated a vote to abolish it. Furthermore, a Premier League-commissioned survey revealed that four out of five fans support keeping VAR. To improve transparency, the Premier League launched a dedicated social media channel to explain VAR decisions, although it postponed the rollout of semi-automated offside technology until 2025.

Webb, who serves as the chief refereeing officer at Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), highlighted that the number of mistakes has decreased significantly with only two VAR errors recorded this season compared to ten at the same point last year. He emphasized the need to manage expectations better, stating that VAR excels in obvious situations.

Additionally, Howard Webb noted improvements in the speed of VAR decision-making, with average delays reducing from 70 seconds per game last season to just 25 seconds this year. He advised officials to act quickly on clear incidents while allowing referees on the field to make calls when necessary. Despite the overall progress, Webb acknowledged a notable error involving Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes.

He received a red card against Tottenham Hotspur last month. VAR officials failed to overturn the decision despite evidence suggesting the challenge did not warrant a red card. After an appeal, the FA rescinded Fernandes’ red card two days later, although he received another red card in a subsequent match against Porto.