Referee Bobby Madley openly criticized VAR during the Cheltenham Science Festival, expressing that it diminishes the emotional experience of football. He shared his feelings as both a referee and a fan, arguing that anticipating a goal should come with excitement, not delays. Madley appreciates the absence of VAR in lower leagues, highlighting his officiating history in the Premier League and his recent return to English football. He also commented on his dismissal from PGMOL, shedding light on his complex journey in officiating.
As a fan, hate it, hate it. Love the Championship, love League One - I'm still a fan.
To take that emotion away, to have to wait and wait, and what feels like an eternity, as a fan I'm not a huge fan of that experience.
Unlike the Premier League, where VAR has been a fixture since the 2019-20 season, the EFL does not implement the technology in regular league play.
Madley also reflected on his officiating history, including 91 Premier League matches between 2013 and 2018, before his dismissal by the PGMOL.
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