FA Cup to Implement VAR from Fifth Round Onwards

The Football Association (FA) has confirmed a significant change regarding the use of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in the FA Cup for the 2024-2025 season. VAR will now be implemented from the fifth round onwards, including all subsequent matches up to and including the final at Wembley Stadium. This marks a departure from previous seasons, where VAR was employed selectively, primarily at Premier League venues equipped with the necessary infrastructure.

The FA's decision aims to ensure a consistent refereeing approach for all clubs participating in the same stage of the competition. By standardizing the use of VAR from the fifth round, the FA seeks to address past criticisms concerning the inconsistent application of the technology, which was previously limited to certain venues due to infrastructure, workforce, and cost considerations.

This adjustment means that early-round matches, including high-profile fixtures such as Arsenal versus Manchester United in the third round, will proceed without VAR intervention. The FA has stated that this approach ensures fairness and uniformity in officiating decisions during the initial stages of the tournament.

VAR was first introduced in the FA Cup during the 2017-2018 season and has been a topic of debate among clubs and supporters. The current modification reflects the FA's commitment to enhancing the integrity of the competition by providing equal conditions for all teams as they advance to the later stages.