Championship clubs have decided not to implement a version of the video assistant referee (VAR) system next season, despite the proposal being presented to them. The system, known as Football Video Support (FVS), is a scaled-back alternative to VAR that requires fewer resources and grants coaches the ability to challenge decisions during matches. However, after receiving feedback from clubs, it has become clear that there is no appetite for such a system in the Championship at this time.
What is Football Video Support (FVS)?
Football Video Support (FVS) is a modified version of VAR designed to work with fewer cameras and officials, making it suitable for lower-tier leagues. Unlike VAR, FVS involves a replay operator who presents potential reviewable incidents to the on-field referee via a pitchside monitor. Each team is allowed two challenges per match. If a challenge results in a successful overturn, the team retains the challenge for the remainder of the game.
Despite its potential advantages, including reducing the frequency of VAR interventions and putting more decision-making power in the hands of coaches, FVS comes with the risk of disrupting the flow of the game more frequently. Trials of FVS have been conducted in various leagues, including the third division of Spain and Serie C in Italy, and the system has faced some criticism over how it can impact match dynamics.
Why Have Championship Clubs Rejected FVS?
The EFL's annual meeting included a presentation on FVS from Professional Game Match Officials (PGMO), which outlined the benefits of the system. However, following feedback from Championship clubs, the proposal was met with resistance. Clubs were primarily concerned about the cost of implementing the technology and the potential disruption it could cause to the flow of matches. Furthermore, many feared that it would negatively affect the matchday experience for fans.
Despite growing calls for VAR from several managers in the Championship, including Norwich's Philippe Clement and former Bristol City manager Gerhard Struber, the majority of clubs opted not to move forward with the system. For now, it seems that FVS is off the table, with no plans to revisit the issue in the immediate future.
Impact of VAR and FVS in Other Leagues
While the Championship has opted to reject FVS, the system has been successfully used in other countries. Leagues in Spain, Italy, and Germany have introduced VAR in their second divisions, and FVS has also been trialed in various leagues, including Serie C in Italy and the Canadian Premier League. However, concerns about the system have already arisen, such as in a recent Canadian Premier League match where a tactical challenge led to a red card decision that ultimately influenced the game's outcome.
Despite the advantages of VAR and FVS in promoting fairer decision-making, their introduction in lower-tier leagues remains a contentious issue. For now, it looks like Championship clubs will continue to rely on traditional refereeing methods, with the continuation of Goal Line Technology in place for the upcoming season.
The rejection of Football Video Support in the Championship highlights the ongoing debate about the use of video technology in lower-tier football. While the system could offer improvements in fairness and accuracy, concerns about its impact on the flow of the game, cost, and fan experience remain significant barriers. It seems that for now, video reviews will not be a feature of the Championship, leaving the focus on enhancing traditional refereeing methods.
