Premier League Rejects VAR Power Expansion for Next Season

The Premier League is set to reject an expansion of VAR's powers next season, following a recommendation from the Professional Game Match Officials (PGMO) board. This decision, as reported by The Guardian, comes despite the International Football Association Board (IFAB) approving a change in February that allows VAR to intervene in corner kick decisions. This measure will be implemented at the World Cup at FIFA's request.

While IFAB made the new rule optional, allowing each league to decide on its implementation, the PGMO has advised the Premier League against adopting it. The primary concern for the officiating body is that VAR reviews of corner kicks could significantly prolong match durations, potentially displeasing broadcast partners and increasing pressure on referees.

This apprehension regarding additional stoppages and longer matches is shared by the clubs. Sources indicate that clubs show little inclination to go against the PGMO's guidance and expand VAR's responsibilities. The final decision will be made by the clubs at their annual general meeting next month.

FIFA, however, is taking a different stance. Pierluigi Collina, chairman of FIFA's refereeing committee, and FIFA President Gianni Infantino have expressed concerns that an incorrect decision on a corner kick could decisively influence a World Cup match, especially in the knockout stages. The prospect of longer games is less of a worry for FIFA, given that the tournament already incorporates three-minute hydration breaks in each half.

It's argued that the likelihood of a single corner kick being decisive in a 38-game league like the Premier League is lower. Nevertheless, Chris Kavanagh's recent decision, in consultation with VAR Darren England, to disallow Callum Wilson's injury-time goal for West Ham against Arsenal, could impact both the title race and the relegation battle.

Howard Webb, chief refereeing officer for the PGMO, is expected to comment on this decision on Sky Sports' Match Officials Mic’d Up program. The PGMO maintains that the officiating duo made the correct call and followed established protocols. West Ham intends to lodge a formal complaint against the decision to penalize Pablo for a foul on David Raya, although the club admits the complaint is unlikely to yield practical results.

Meanwhile, IFAB is expected to discuss the issue of grappling during corner kicks, a problem particularly noticeable in the Premier League this season, at a meeting after the World Cup. However, no concrete proposals to address this issue have yet been put forward.