IK Start joins movement to abolish VAR in Norwegian football

IK Start has joined a growing movement among Norwegian football clubs to abolish the use of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology. Following a decision made at the club's annual meeting, General Manager Vibeke Johannesen confirmed that the club is contacting other top-tier teams, such as Lillestrøm and Vålerenga, to support initiatives aimed at removing video officiating from the league.

Johannesen noted that recent match experiences, specifically against HamKam, highlighted how VAR can negatively impact the match experience.

Separately, concerns have been raised regarding the club's readiness for its recent promotion. Critics suggest that the club may have ascended to the top flight too early, lacking the necessary financial and human resources to compete effectively. There are calls for increased sporting competence within the club's administration and governing bodies following the resignation of three board members with significant sporting expertise earlier this year.