Premier league referees divided over live VAR conversations for fans

Premier League referees are at odds over a proposed rule change that could allow fans to listen to conversations between match officials and VARs in real-time. The revelation came from FA chief executive Mark Bullingham, who also serves as a director at IFAB, the body responsible for shaping the laws of the game. The idea of making live audio available to fans was seen as a way to enhance transparency, but it has generated a divide between officials and those involved in marketing and commercial aspects.

Bullingham disclosed, “That is something we have talked about in multiple IFABs. Generally, there is a split in the room over that, and quite often it is between the marketing-and-commercial people and the referees. Our perspective from the marketing and commercial standpoint is that transparency is generally a good thing, and we want fans to have the maximum experience. I think we have taken a step in that direction by announcing the referee’s decision, and I believe that is a positive step. Fans in the stadium should never be less informed than those watching on TV.”

Bullingham’s remarks follow a recent high-profile communication error that led to Liverpool having a goal incorrectly disallowed in their 2-1 loss to Tottenham last month. The incident highlighted the need for improved communication and transparency in refereeing decisions, but the implementation of live audio discussions remains a topic of debate among officials.