Premier League clubs to meet in Harrogate to consider scrapping VAR from next season after proposal by Wolverhampton Wanderers

The meeting, which will be held in Harrogate on June 6, will discuss potentially scrapping video assistant refereeing (VAR) after a series of controversial decisions throughout the 2023/24 Premier League season.

VAR has been used in the English top-flight since 2019, helping referees to improve decision making but it has also generated persistent controversy throughout the years.

The proposal has been tabled by Wolverhampton Wanderers – one of the clubs that have been on the end of several controversial refereeing decisions this season

A club statement said: "The introduction of VAR in 2019/20 was a decision made in good faith and with the best interests of football and the Premier League at its heart.

"However, it has led to numerous unintended negative consequences that are damaging the relationship between fans and football, and undermining the value of the Premier League brand.

"The decision to table the resolution has come after careful consideration and with the utmost respect for the Premier League, PGMOL and our fellow competitors.

"There is no blame to be placed - we are all just looking for the best possible outcome for football - and all stakeholders have been working hard to try and make the introduction of additional technology a success.

"However, after five seasons of VAR in the Premier League it is time for a constructive and critical debate on its future.

"Our position is that the price we are paying for a small increase in accuracy is at odds with the spirit of our game, and as a result we should remove it from the 2024/25 season onwards."

They will need 13 of the other 19 clubs to agree with them.

The Premier League recognises Wolves' right to make such a proposal, but it feels abolishing VAR would lead to many more incorrect decisions.

A Premier League spokesperson said: "The Premier League can confirm it will facilitate a discussion on VAR with our clubs at the Annual General Meeting next month.

"Clubs are entitled to put forward proposals at shareholders' meetings and we acknowledge the concerns and issues around the use of VAR.

"However, the League fully supports the use of VAR and remains committed, alongside PGMOL, to make continued improvements to the system for the benefit of the game and fans."

The proposal will be decided upon at the Premier League’s Annual General Meeting at an unnamed location in Harrogate on Thursday, June 6.