soccer

VAR Debate Rages in Championship

The controversial disallowance of Sheffield United's goal in the 2025 Championship play-off final has reignited debate about introducing VAR to all league games.

Only two goals have ever been overturned by VAR in the Championship - including the one that cost Sheffield United promotion in the 2025 play-off final. Sunderland's dramatic 2-1 victory at Wembley followed the disallowed goal, with Blades boss Chris Wilder criticizing the 'subjective' VAR decision that ruled out Harrison Burrows' effort for offside.

Currently, VAR is only used in the play-off final, not regular season games. Former Bristol City coach Gerhard Struber exemplifies the divided opinions, stating he's 'not a fan' of VAR but believes it would make games 'fairer'. As refereeing controversies continue in the 2025-26 season, the question remains whether the technology should be introduced across the Championship.