West Ham United striker Michail Antonio has launched a scathing attack on VAR (Video Assistant Referee), claiming it’s “making the refereeing worse” and “ruined the atmosphere” in football.
Antonio cites multiple controversial VAR decisions against West Ham, including an incident at Bramall Lane and a handball call against Burnley. He feels West Ham has been particularly unlucky with officiating using VAR.
The West Ham striker advocates for the complete abolition of VAR, suggesting it undermines referees’ authority and creates more confusion than clarity. He believes referees themselves would vote to get rid of it if given the chance.
When presented with the idea of a limited number of challenges per team for VAR reviews, Antonio remains unconvinced.
Antonio criticizes VAR for dampening the atmosphere, citing fans’ muted celebrations due to the uncertainty surrounding video reviews. He argues that VAR slows down the game, reduces momentum, and makes it less enjoyable for everyone involved.
Antonio’s comments reflect growing frustration with VAR within football. He urges action, suggesting either complete removal, a limited challenge system, or improved referee training. Regardless of the solution, the current system, according to Antonio, is failing players, fans, and referees alike.
The solution is simple really. Adopt Rugby union’s way and have a TMO at each game. They advise the referee on things they see,not just potential errors.The game is too quick now for one official to have a complete handle on things
It works well for RU and no clamour to change it.
Football could learn a lot, including time management and respect for the referee
Totally agree with Antonio, spot on. VAR needs to go completely cos it is ruining football!!
I am a Rugby Union supporter and a West Ham season ticket holder and have lots of discussions re the TMO in rugby,where it works well, but it’s a much slower game than football so not so sure it will work better than VAR in football.