Dundee United pull out of VAR review panel
Last updated 5th Feb 2025
Dundee United have withdrawn from the SFA’s Key Match Incident panel over concern about the use of VAR.
The club refer to "inconsistent interpretations of the laws of the game".
They were angered the technology didn't intervene for Kilmarnock's winning goal against them on Saturday, after keeper Jack Walton had allegedly been impeded.
A statement from United says : "We have expressed our concerns to the Scottish FA regarding the inconsistent interpretations of the laws of the game arising from VAR. This inconsistency has, at various times, caused other William Hill Premiership clubs to express their frustration at the use of VAR, and while we are fully aware of our desire to ensure Dundee United at all times are given fair representation, we also wish to improve the overall game in Scottish football and encourage all parties to collaborate on making improvements.
United say VAR has highlighted inconsistency in decision-making
We further acknowledge that decisions will sometimes go against us - that is an inherent part of football. We also accept that referees, like everyone else, will make mistakes, and we respect the authority of match officials to make decisions - even when they may be contentious. However, as a club, we believe that the introduction of VAR has highlighted inconsistency in decision-making. As a result, scrutiny has been enhanced and refereeing decisions have become a more prominent public issue.
Dundee United FC will always prioritise the interests of our club, but we will also be reaching out to the Scottish FA and the SPFL, encouraging all Premiership clubs to come together. We are seeking ways to support our officials and improve both the VAR protocol and any subsequent review panel, with a view to enhancing Scottish football for the benefit of its member clubs".