The Premier League aims to reduce frustration with the VAR (Video Assistant Referee) system by launching a social media account that will offer near real-time updates and explanations regarding officiating and operational decisions for every match. Despite significant criticism of the VAR system last season, teams voted in June to retain the technology, with Wolverhampton Wanderers even initiating a petition to abolish it.
“Welcome to the Premier League Match Centre X account. This page will provide live updates from Stockley Park including information directly from the VAR Hub. We will issue near-live updates on operational matters from all matches – including clarification on refereeing and VAR,” read the official statement from the League on X.
Since live VAR audio is not permitted in football, the Premier League announced on Tuesday that the Premier League Match Centre will use social media to provide near-live updates from the VAR Hub during games. “In the absence of live VAR audio being broadcast, as it is not permitted in football, the Premier League Match Centre will be able to relay on social media near-live information from the VAR Hub during a game,” the league said in a statement on Tuesday.
In addition to posting refereeing decisions, the X account, @PLMatchCentre, will offer insights directly from the VAR hub and refereeing experts to enhance transparency, according to the league. Experts from PGMOL, the league’s officiating body, will also clarify the laws of the game and provide additional information on VAR decision-making processes when necessary.
This social media account will deliver near-live explanations and updates on officiating and operational matters for every Premier League match. It will provide factual explanations of on-pitch refereeing decisions, the involvement of VAR, and the role of technology in the decision-making process.
The Premier League Match Centre, based at Stockley Park, serves as the operational hub of the league, ensuring the smooth running of matchday operations. It is connected to all 20 Premier League stadiums, the VAR Hub, and broadcast partners worldwide.
