EFL clubs reject VAR challenge system in Championship amid cost and pace concerns

Championship clubs have delivered a decisive rejection of proposals to introduce a VAR challenge system in the second tier, with clubs voting overwhelmingly against the measure following a heated EFL shareholders' meeting on Tuesday.

The proposals would have allowed managers a limited number of challenges per match to contest refereeing decisions, similar to systems trialled in other sports. However, after detailed presentations outlining the implementation costs and potential logistical hurdles, club representatives voted 17-5 against proceeding with any trial.

Derbyshire-based club chairman Marcus Ford, who opposed the measure, explained the reasoning: "The financial burden of installing the necessary infrastructure at all 24 grounds would run into tens of millions. Add to that the training requirements for match officials and the potential for extended stoppages, and it becomes clear this isn't the right time."

Supporters of the challenge system had argued it could reduce contentious decisions and increase accountability. Proponents suggested that allowing two challenges per team per match could help correct obvious errors while maintaining the flow of the game.

The Professional Football Association also weighed in with reservations, citing concerns about player and fan experience. "We understand the desire to get decisions right, but there are more efficient ways to improve refereeing standards," a PFA spokesperson stated.

Championship referees, many of whom operate on limited resources compared to their Premier League counterparts, expressed relief at the outcome. Senior match official Howard Webb acknowledged: "We always welcome technological assistance when it's practical, but this particular proposal had significant drawbacks that needed careful consideration."

The EFL has confirmed it will focus on alternative measures to support match officials, including enhanced training programmes and the introduction of a simplified communication protocol between referees and spectators.