English Football League (EFL) clubs have decided against implementing a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) challenge system for the upcoming season. According to Sky Sports News, the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMO) presented a demonstration of the proposed system at the EFL's annual meeting, but the clubs have opted not to adopt it. As a result, the EFL will continue to use goal-line technology in the Championship, but will not utilize VAR. In contrast, the Premier League will retain VAR, despite a recent survey indicating that 75% of fans are opposed to its use, and 90% believe it has not improved their matchday experience.
The survey, conducted by the Football Supporters' Association, also found that 91% of fans think VAR has negatively impacted the spontaneity of goal celebrations, and 94% disagree that it enhances the television viewing experience. The extension of VAR's powers by football's governing bodies will allow for the optional use of VAR to check corners in competitions starting this summer. Additionally, VAR will now be used to review second yellow cards, but only in cases where an incorrect second yellow card was awarded, and not to advise referees to issue a second yellow card that was not initially given.