Mentor Name
Dr. Somi Shin
Course Title
RSCH202: Introduction to Research Methods
Course Number
RSCH 202
Submitting Campus
Worldwide
Student Status
Undergraduate
Project Abstract
The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) has reshaped officiating in European football, offering unprecedented decision accuracy but disrupting the traditional fan experience. This study examines how VAR influences fan satisfaction among at-home viewers, a critical yet understudied demographic, by focusing on perceptions of fairness, game flow, and emotional engagement. Using a cross-sectional survey of 385 global fans, sectioned by age groups and fandom levels, the research employs regression analysis to explore relationships between satisfaction and factors such as team loyalty, football knowledge, and exposure to VAR. Results indicate that while VAR enhances perceived fairness, frequent interruptions and delayed celebrations significantly reduce viewer experience, including emotional spontaneity, key elements of the football experience. These findings underline the duality of VAR’s impact, offering insights into how technological interventions in sports can align with viewer expectations. The study contributes to the evolving discourse on the integration of technology in football and provides actionable recommendations for improving VAR’s implementation to better engage fans without compromising the essence of the game.
