Ahead of Wednesday’s final set of FA Cup fifth round ties, only two games will feature the use of VAR – why is that?
The FA Cup has used VAR since 2018 when it became the first competition in England to use the technology in a trial period and there are now over 60 leagues across the globe that use VAR.
The use of the technology has been criticised more than ever in recent months, but has been brought to light specifically regarding Wednesday’s FA Cup fifth round games.
Is VAR Used In The FA Cup?
Yes – VAR is used in the FA Cup, however only on occasion.
The technology is limited to Premier League grounds, meaning those in the Championship, League One or below will not have access to VAR when playing at home.
This is because the technology is already in place for such stadiums and the FA will not pay to install VAR for one-off ties.
In Stoke City’s 1-0 loss to Brighton last night, Lewis Baker was lucky not to see red for a challenge on Moses Caicedo – but if VAR technology was available, there’s a strong likelihood Baker would’ve been sent off.
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Which FA Cup Games Will Use VAR Tonight?
- Southampton vs Grimsby Town – YES
- Burnley vs Fleetwood Town – NO
- Manchester United vs West Ham – YES
- Sheffield United vs Spurs – NO
Despite Burnley and Sheffield United both having VAR installed in their respective stadiums (Turf Moor and Bramall Lane) from being in the Premier League recently, the technology can’t be used due to licensing issues.
In the quarter-final and beyond, the FA have licensed all ties to have VAR in place – which could be installed in grounds such as Ewood Park (Blackburn Rovers) and Highbury Stadium (Fleetwood Town).
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