FA Cup Introduces VAR in All Fifth-Round Matches for 2024-25 Season

Previously, VAR was only available at Premier League stadiums equipped with the necessary infrastructure, meaning that teams playing at lower-league venues often did not benefit from the technology. This inconsistency led to debates over fairness, particularly when controversial decisions impacted the outcome of matches.

By introducing VAR across all fifth-round fixtures, the FA hopes to create a more level playing field for all competing teams. A spokesperson from the FA stated, “Our goal is to enhance the integrity of the competition by ensuring that key decisions are made as accurately as possible. While logistical challenges remain at certain venues, we believe this change is a positive step forward.”

However, despite this improvement, VAR will still not be used in the third and fourth rounds of the FA Cup. The FA cited infrastructural limitations and financial constraints as key reasons why the technology cannot yet be applied earlier in the competition. With many lower-league clubs participating in these rounds, the cost of installing VAR across multiple non-Premier League stadiums would be prohibitively expensive.

This decision has sparked mixed reactions among players, managers, and fans. While many welcome the increased consistency in the later rounds, some argue that the competition should either use VAR throughout or not at all. Critics believe that its selective application still creates a disparity in officiating, with smaller clubs potentially disadvantaged in earlier rounds.

Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp has previously voiced his concerns about VAR inconsistencies in cup competitions, stating that “it’s frustrating when one match has the technology and another doesn’t. It’s either all or nothing.” Meanwhile, Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag welcomed the change, saying that “anything that improves decision-making in critical moments is a good thing.”

Fans have also expressed differing opinions. While some believe that VAR is a necessary tool to ensure fairness in high-stakes matches, others remain frustrated by its controversial implementation. Complaints about lengthy delays, subjective interpretations, and inconsistent usage have led to ongoing debates about the role of VAR in football.

Despite the concerns, the FA remains committed to integrating VAR more effectively into the FA Cup. There is speculation that further advancements in technology and funding could eventually allow VAR to be used throughout the entire competition, including the early rounds. For now, teams progressing to the fifth round can expect to benefit from the same level of officiating technology as Premier League sides. Whether this change will reduce controversy or simply shift debates to an even later stage in the competition remains to be seen.