Sat Jan 31, 2026 3:26 pm
EFL CONFIRMS VAR ROLLOUT IN LEAGUE ONE AHEAD OF 2026–27 SEASON — PILOT MATCHES TO INCLUDE DONCASTER ROVERS
The English Football League has officially confirmed that Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology will be introduced to League One on a trial basis beginning next season, marking a major step in the modernisation of officiating across the EFL pyramid.
According to a statement released on Tuesday morning, the decision follows “extensive consultation with clubs, match officials and broadcast partners” and will initially be limited to selected fixtures, with Doncaster Rovers among the clubs taking part in the pilot programme.
EFL Chief Operating Officer Trevor Birch said the move was aimed at improving decision-making in key match incidents, including goals, penalties and red cards, while acknowledging concerns around cost, matchday flow and supporter experience at League One level.
“While VAR has had a mixed reception in the professional game, we believe a carefully managed introduction in League One will help ensure consistency and fairness,” Birch said. “The pilot will allow us to assess its impact in a lower-league environment before considering any wider rollout.”
Clubs involved in the trial will use a streamlined VAR system, featuring fewer camera angles than those deployed in the Premier League, with reviews conducted from a central hub rather than on-site facilities. The EFL confirmed that matchday ticket prices will not increase as a result of the trial.
Doncaster Rovers manager Grant McCann welcomed the announcement cautiously, saying the club was “open to innovation” but stressed that decisions must not come at the expense of the match-going fan.
Supporter groups have reacted with a mixture of curiosity and scepticism, with some questioning whether VAR is compatible with the fast-paced, traditional atmosphere of League One football.
The EFL said a full review will take place at the end of the season, with the findings to be shared publicly before any permanent decision is made.
Sat Jan 31, 2026 3:42 pm
Ah well, that’s me retiring from watching football then. I refuse to watch football where passionate celebrations are ruined because of a toe nail offside.