FA Cup Drops VAR for Early Rounds, Sparks Debate

The Football Association (FA) has announced significant changes to the use of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in the early rounds of the FA Cup for the 2023-24 season. VAR will not be used in the third and fourth rounds, marking a departure from its introduction in the 2017-18 season, where it was implemented in ties involving Premier League clubs at home.

Previously, VAR was only used in matches hosted by Premier League teams due to the infrastructure and costs required. This created a two-tier system, where lower-league clubs often faced different refereeing standards depending on the venue. The FA has now decided to ensure consistency by removing VAR from the third and fourth rounds entirely, with the technology set to return from the fifth round onwards for all matches.

The decision has sparked debate among fans and clubs. Some argue that the move levels the playing field, while others believe it undermines the integrity of the competition. FA chief executive Mark Bullingham defended the changes, stating, “This new agreement strengthens the Emirates FA Cup and ensures a consistent refereeing approach for all clubs.”

In addition to the VAR changes, the FA has also scrapped replays from the first round onwards, a move that has drawn criticism from lower-league clubs. The new scheduling agreement with the Premier League, which increases funding for grassroots football, has been met with mixed reactions. Critics claim the decision prioritizes top-tier clubs, while supporters argue it modernizes the competition.

The third round, which began on Thursday, will see ties decided on the day with extra time and penalties if necessary. This change has already impacted teams like Tamworth, a National League side, who held Premier League Everton to a 0-0 draw but were forced to play extra time instead of earning a lucrative replay.

The FA Cup final will now take place on the penultimate weekend of the season, with no Premier League matches scheduled on the same day. Bullingham emphasized that the changes aim to “protect and enhance the magic of the Cup” while addressing the demands of a crowded football calendar.