FIFA president announces probable VAR reforms, coaches allowed to request VAR checks – report

The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) has faced several criticisms since its inception. In recent hours, English Premier League club Wolves submitted a proposal to vote whether to scrap the technology of in the English top flight.

At the FIFA Congress held this Friday in Bangkok, FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced potential changes to the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system, aimed at making the technology more accessible and interactive. A steadfast advocate of VAR, Infantino emphasized the need for continuous improvement and wider adoption of the system.

“We intend to develop and improve the VAR,” Infantino stated, highlighting FIFA’s commitment to refining the technology that has revolutionized football officiating. Central to these proposed changes is the introduction of a more basic VAR setup, featuring fewer cameras to reduce costs and enhance accessibility. “A more basic technology has been created, with fewer cameras and therefore more affordable for everyone. The system is already being tested,” he revealed.

One of the significant innovations under consideration is allowing coaches to request VAR interventions directly. “The coaches of each team may request the help of the VAR on two occasions,” Infantino announced, suggesting a shift towards a more dynamic use of the technology. Additionally, players would have the ability to prompt their coaches to call for a review, thus increasing their engagement in the decision-making process.

Infantino also addressed the procedural aspect of the proposed system. “In the event that, as a result of the requested review, there is a change in the initial decision adopted by the referee, the team that has promoted the consultation will maintain the two opportunities to request the review of the play,” he explained. This rule aims to ensure fairness and encourage judicious use of review requests.

These proposed changes reflect FIFA’s ongoing efforts to balance technological advancement with the principles of fair play and accessibility. By making VAR more affordable and integrating direct requests from team officials, FIFA hopes to enhance the integrity of the game and its global appeal. As testing continues, the football community will be watching closely to see how these potential reforms could shape the future of officiating in the sport.

Source: Mundo Deportivo