MLS plans to roll out video replay this season

Video replay in MLS will be a thing in 2017.

Just a few days after the league announced they were testing PRO’s Video Assistant Replay technology in preseason matches, the Professional Referee Association has hired Howard Webb as the manager of VAR operations. Beginning in March, the vastly experienced EPL and Champions League referee will be tasked with implementing the technology as smoothly as possible.

The league is aiming to go live by the All-Star Game and use the technology in the second half of the season.

“Howard Webb will be a great asset to PRO in spearheading the VAR project,” said PRO general manager Peter Walton. “His high-level officiating experience and work as a broadcaster will bring tremendous value as he guides our referees through various VAR testing and assessment exercises ahead of forthcoming VAR implementation.”

“I’m delighted to join the Professional Referee Organization for this new challenge and contribute to the implementation of what I view as a crucial development for the sport,” said Webb. “I have tremendous respect for the organization that Peter Walton has created and am excited to be on board for the continued development of this initiative.”