Ladies and gents, it’s time to discuss the elephant in the room. The introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology to football promised to revolutionise the sport by ensuring more accurate and just decisions. However, as with any technological advancement, VAR has sparked debates and discussions among fans, players, and pundits alike.
Some are pro Video Assistant Referees, and some are vocally against it. Former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson recently stated he feels VAR isn’t time effective, and can disrupt the tempo of a football match. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of VAR, and analyse how it’s impacting the game we all love.
Pros of VAR in Football
Correcting Clear and Obvious Errors
One of the primary advantages of VAR is its ability to correct clear and obvious errors made by on-field referees. Instances of mistaken identity, offside goals, and missed red card offences can be reviewed and rectified, ensuring a fair outcome and maintaining the integrity of the game.
Helpful For Referees
Referees are under a lot of pressure, not just from players and coaching staff, but from fans too. They do an extremely demanding job, so the additional support VAR provides can help them to no end. They can officiate matches knowing should they make a mistake, VAR is on hand to intervene and alleviate tension.
Consistency in Decision-Making
VAR promotes consistency in decision-making across different matches and competitions. Referees have access to the same technology and guidelines, reducing the likelihood of biassed or inconsistent officiating.
Enhanced Viewer Experience
For television viewers, VAR has added a layer of excitement and suspense as they await the outcome of a VAR review. The technology has become a talking point and has generated increased interest and engagement among fans. From a playing perspective, it offers goal scorers the opportunity to celebrate their goal twice. After a nervous wait, having their goal confirmed is like a second wave of elation.
Cons of VAR in Football
Subjectivity in Decision-Making
Despite its intended objectivity, VAR decisions often involve an element of subjectivity. Interpretation of incidents, especially in situations like handball or offside, can vary, leading to controversies and debates over the consistency of VAR judgments.
Disruption to Flow of the Game
VAR reviews can disrupt the natural flow of the game, causing delays that interrupt the rhythm of play. Prolonged stoppages, especially for marginal decisions, can diminish the spectacle and excitement of live football. This is particularly frustrating for fans in attendance, as they can do nothing but wait in the stands as they hope for play to continue.
Emotional Impact on Players and Fans
The emotional rollercoaster experienced by players and fans during VAR reviews can be intense. Celebrations can be cut short, and the uncertainty surrounding decisions may lead to frustration and dissatisfaction among players and supporters. Being a football fan is stressful as it is, the last thing you need is another reason to panic.
Offside Decisions and Marginal Calls
VAR’s precision in offside decisions, while aimed at accuracy, has led to contentious calls based on marginal distances. The technology is not immune to controversies, and debates continue over the level of precision required for determining offside. It raises questions such as “how thick should the line be drawn?” “Where should the line be drawn from?” “Can we definitively determine the time a through ball was played?” It can get very messy.
Impact on Referee Authority
VAR has the potential to undermine the authority of on-field referees. The reliance on technology for crucial decisions may diminish the referee’s role, raising questions about the balance between human judgement and technological intervention. As a referee, you’re told your decision is final, to have that power removed would no doubt feel patronising at best.
VAR in football has undoubtedly brought about a paradigm shift in decision-making, seeking to minimise errors and enhance fairness. However, the technology is not without its challenges. Striking the right balance between accuracy and maintaining the flow of the game remains a delicate task.
Are you for or against VAR? There’s plenty of points to make for both sides of an ever-growing debate.
