Norwegian Clubs Choose to Retain VAR After Intense Debate

The decision regarding the future of VAR in Norwegian football was unequivocally settled during the association’s annual meeting on Saturday afternoon.

A total of 321 votes supported the continuation of VAR, while 129 opposed it. This particular vote significantly contributed to a record turnout at the annual gathering.

“I hope this outcome does not leave fans and clubs feeling disheartened. My wish is for us to persist in enhancing the VAR system,” stated Lise Klaveness, the president of the football association.

VAR was rolled out in Norway’s top league, the Eliteserien, at the start of the 2023 season, sparking widespread debate since its introduction. Frustration grew during its initial months, particularly after one match where an offside decision took seven minutes to resolve.

A match featuring Rosenborg and Lillestrøm was halted—and subsequently abandoned—after supporters protested against VAR by throwing fish cakes and then tennis balls onto the pitch shortly after kickoff.

In a January vote among the 32 clubs in Norway’s top two leagues, 19 opted to abolish VAR while 13 voted to retain it. A recommendation was subsequently put forth to the federation, urging the swift removal of VAR in line with the majority sentiment of the clubs.

However, a week later, in a setback for VAR opponents, the Norwegian Football Association expressed its backing for the technology. Lise Klaveness remarked that while there were areas needing improvement, it was crucial to keep the video officials.

All member clubs of the federation, along with representatives of the federation’s counties and board members, were entitled to cast their vote.