Credit: Sky Sports / Imago

Harri Burton

Mon 30 March 2026 13:45, UK

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Newcastle United supporters have every right to be frustrated and confused over the KMI (Key Match Incident) Panel’s deliberation on their game against Chelsea.

That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that he thought the panel’s conclusion on Reece James’ foul inside the penalty area was “AI”.

During the clash on Saturday, 14 March, the Blues’ captain got away with dragging Malick Thiaw to the ground in the 34th minute. Both Paul Tierney and VAR waved away calls for a spot-kick.

The KMI Panel voted 4:1 that a penalty should have been awarded, but the same group of people voted 5:0 that it was not a mistake from VAR not to intervene in Chelsea versus Newcastle at Stamford Bridge.

KMI Panel causes confusion over Chelsea vs Newcastle controversy

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former referee said: “We said at the time that it was the wrong call, and it was definitely a penalty kick. I don’t see any avenue that allows VAR not to do its job. 

“If this isn’t a clear and obvious error, then what is? That statement made by the KMI Panel is farcical. It’s just farcical to say that VAR isn’t to blame.

“That’s what VAR is there for! They’ve confirmed it as a clear and obvious error, but VAR didn’t intervene. What’s VAR for then? Just sit them in the stands and let them watch the game.

“My first thought was, ‘Is this AI?’ I thought I should take extra care. VAR is in a position to review this incident from various angles and film clips.

“I can only think of one explanation for VAR not coming in – he was on the toilet. Did they have a power cut at Stockley Park? Did the communication break down?”

Keith Hackett blames communication for Premier League VAR blunders

The panel also concluded that Arsenal should have been awarded a penalty against Everton after Michael Keane pushed Kai Havertz over in the area, but also that VAR didn’t make an error.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Hackett said: “I’m questioning the relationship between referee and VAR. I think that’s where it stands. I can’t find any other excuse. 

“If they’re saying it’s a wrong decision, and it’s clear and obvious, then they should be questioning ‘Where is VAR?’ Then I go back to what the relationship is between referee and VAR.”

Supporters are only getting more and more frustrated by VAR decisions this season, with the majority wanting the technology to be scrapped in the Premier League.