RFEF announces investigation in VAR audio leaks from Madrid clash against Almería

The Real Federación Española de Fútbol (RFEF) has responded assertively to the recent unauthorized release of VAR audio recordings from the Real Madrid CF and UD Almería match in the National First Division Championship.

This incident, which has raised concerns about privacy and the potential impact on the sport’s integrity, prompted the RFEF to file a formal complaint with the Guardia Civil, marking a significant move to address the breach.

In light of the seriousness of the situation, the RFEF has launched an internal investigation to identify the source responsible for the leak.

The federation considers the breach of privacy and unauthorized dissemination of confidential information as a grave matter, emphasizing the need for swift action to establish accountability and maintain the integrity of football.

Suspicions Arise Within CTA Regarding VAR Audio Leak

The Technical Committee of Referees (CTA) has also introduced a new dimension to the narrative. Suspicions from the CTA suggest a potential source within their ranks, pointing towards an individual with access to the platform where VAR audios are stored.

Isaac Fouto, speaking on El Partidazo de COPE, revealed that the CTA believes the leaker had privileged access to the platform containing VAR audios.

The audio in question captured a conversation between the main referee, Hernández Maeso, and the VOR room referee, Hernández Hernández, discussing an incident involving Vinicius and Almería’s Pozo during the match.

The decision to award only a yellow card and not trigger a VAR review has intensified the controversy. Fouto highlighted that all VAR audios are accessible to the CTA, referees, and two external companies responsible for maintaining records in a cloud-like system.

The suspicions raised by the CTA point towards the possibility of a former employee, either from the Federation or CTA, having access to the platform and leaking VAR audios.

Despite the gravity of the leak, Fouto emphasized a sense of calm within the CTA concerning Hernández Hernández’s decision during the match, asserting that the referee acted appropriately given the circumstances.

Arancha Rodríguez added her perspective, emphasizing the gravity of the leak for Spanish football and comparing it to previous incidents. According to arbitration regulations, the incident warranted a yellow card, explaining the CTA’s decision not to involve VAR for further scrutiny.