The SPFL are looking at ways to drive down the costs of bringing VAR into Scottish football with some clubs balking at an increase in price for the system, according to the Daily Mail.
The report states that the cost of bringing VAR to Scotland has increased from £60k per year to £100k per year. This apparently has many clubs balking, with a vote due to happen on bringing the system into play next month.
If approved, the Mail reports that VAR could be in place by January 2023.
The report also states that Celtic and Rangers are impatient when it comes to progressing on the issue. Even if others are dragging their feet, it’s stated that the Hoops and our rivals want to press ahead with it.
The Mail claims that the SPFL doesn’t want a system where only some grounds in Scotland have VAR because they’ve been able to afford it. The costs have increased due to a proposal to change the system from 4 fixed cameras to 6 manned cameras at grounds.
It remains to be seen if the league can find a way to drive down costs further. However, with controversial refereeing decisions cropping up on a weekly basis, it’s evident the pressure to get it into the Scottish Premiership is growing.
VAR to Scotland hitting roadblocks but Celtic keen for its introduction
It would be ideal if we had a system for VAR in place by the start of 2023 – absolutely. It will be interesting to see how much Celtic and Rangers are willing to fork out if they’re both keen to get it into the country.
If costs are only £100k annually for clubs, there’s no reason why the Glasgow clubs couldn’t help those struggling to afford it. Granted, that approach could open up a can of worms for clubs who are somewhere in the middle.
It’s clear there’s no stopping VAR coming into the game up here. It’s inevitable. Like it or not, this is modern football for you. It’s something the referees are backing and something that is part of the game in 2022.
The fact that it’s being urged into the country by Celtic should also make fans want it too. It’s evident that the Hoops believe they will get more decisions in their favour if the system comes into place. We’ve certainly been on the end of some poor ones in recent weeks.
The report also ends this notion that Celtic simply don’t want VAR due to the fact we’ll no longer get away with decisions. That’s been an opinion pushed by rival fans over the weekend as they struggle to accept us going 3 clear at the top.
But hopefully a solution is provided when it comes to bringing VAR into the game up here. It’s something Celtic clearly want.
In other news, Celtic greats join Manchester United and Liverpool in exciting Masters return this summer
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