Introduce virtual assistant referee in Major League Soccer

The Issue

As a passionate follower of Major League Soccer (MLS), I've witnessed firsthand how critical refereeing decisions can drastically alter the outcome of matches. These decisions, often riddled with human error and bias, can be the difference between victory and defeat, success and heartbreak. Sadly, our beloved league seems stuck in the shadow of outdated officiating methods when it has the potential to be at the pinnacle of professional football in North America.

The integration of a Virtual Assistant Referee (VAR) system in MLS can revolutionize our beloved game. By providing an additional layer of oversight, VAR can help ensure the accuracy of critical decisions such as goals, penalty calls, red card incidents, and cases of mistaken identity. This system has already been successfully implemented in top leagues worldwide, including the English Premier League, Bundesliga, and La Liga, where it has significantly reduced the frequency of game-changing errors.

Furthermore, FIFA and other professional leagues have lauded VAR for its ability to enhance the fairness and integrity of the sport. It helps in maintaining a balance, ensuring the spirit of fair play is upheld and only skill and strategy dictate the game's outcome.

The introduction of VAR in MLS is not just beneficial but necessary. As fans, we deserve transparency and fairness in our league. What’s more, providing referees with technological assistance can alleviate pressure off them and allow them to focus on game management with fewer controversies.

In an era where technology consistently improves our experiences, ignoring this advancement seems counterproductive to the growth of MLS. It's time for MLS to embrace change and join the global community in delivering precision and fairness in football.

Let's push for this change, let's improve the standards of our matches, and support our teams with a fair and unbiased system in place. Sign this petition to urge Major League Soccer to implement the Virtual Assistant Referee system and take a significant step towards ensuring accurate and unbiased officiating. Your support can make games better for players, fans, and officials alike. Join us in making MLS the best it can be.

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The Issue

As a passionate follower of Major League Soccer (MLS), I've witnessed firsthand how critical refereeing decisions can drastically alter the outcome of matches. These decisions, often riddled with human error and bias, can be the difference between victory and defeat, success and heartbreak. Sadly, our beloved league seems stuck in the shadow of outdated officiating methods when it has the potential to be at the pinnacle of professional football in North America.

The integration of a Virtual Assistant Referee (VAR) system in MLS can revolutionize our beloved game. By providing an additional layer of oversight, VAR can help ensure the accuracy of critical decisions such as goals, penalty calls, red card incidents, and cases of mistaken identity. This system has already been successfully implemented in top leagues worldwide, including the English Premier League, Bundesliga, and La Liga, where it has significantly reduced the frequency of game-changing errors.

Furthermore, FIFA and other professional leagues have lauded VAR for its ability to enhance the fairness and integrity of the sport. It helps in maintaining a balance, ensuring the spirit of fair play is upheld and only skill and strategy dictate the game's outcome.

The introduction of VAR in MLS is not just beneficial but necessary. As fans, we deserve transparency and fairness in our league. What’s more, providing referees with technological assistance can alleviate pressure off them and allow them to focus on game management with fewer controversies.

In an era where technology consistently improves our experiences, ignoring this advancement seems counterproductive to the growth of MLS. It's time for MLS to embrace change and join the global community in delivering precision and fairness in football.

Let's push for this change, let's improve the standards of our matches, and support our teams with a fair and unbiased system in place. Sign this petition to urge Major League Soccer to implement the Virtual Assistant Referee system and take a significant step towards ensuring accurate and unbiased officiating. Your support can make games better for players, fans, and officials alike. Join us in making MLS the best it can be.

The Decision Makers

Don Garber
Don Garber
MLS Commissioner
Board of Governors of
Board of Governors of

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Petition created on May 25, 2026