As of the 2019-2020 Premier League soccer season, clubs will be showing fans VAR decision on stadium video boards.
The introduction of video assistant referees, which sees officials stop play to review game decisions have been criticised by fans at live games as it stops play without informing them what is being reviewed, which can be seen by a television audience.
To help make VAR clearer for fans, the Premier League confirmed that clubs with the display technology to do so will be able to show graphics and definitive clips that explain VAR decisions.
“The Premier League has created graphics which will be displayed on giant screens to explain any VAR-related delay to a match, and any overturned decision. Additionally, if the VAR believes there is a definitive video clip which helps explain an overturned decision, it will be broadcast on giant screens,” the Premier League said in a statement.
However, not every team will be able to take advantage – with only two clubs in the Premier League lacking the big screen technology. Interestingly, these are the European champions Liverpool FC, as well as the owners of the largest soccer club stadium in the UK, Manchester United. Fans at Anfield and Old Trafford won’t see video clips but will be given audible announcements.
“For clubs who do not have giant screens in their stadium, VAR communications will be made via a combination of PA announcements and messages on scoreboards.”
