FIFA is experimenting with allowing team representatives to request VAR reviews during matches, which could significantly alter the implementation of VAR in football competitions.
Under the current regulations, FIFA strictly prohibits players and coaching staff from pressuring referees to review VAR decisions during critical moments. This rule is reiterated to players and coaching staff before each tournament.
However, FIFA has recently started testing a system that permits team representatives to request VAR reviews a limited number of times during matches. This concept is similar to the VS technology used in futsal or the video challenge system applied in many other sports. FIFA has termed this new approach as VS technology in football.
The world’s leading football organization has applied this system in the Blue Stars/FIFA Youth Cup and plans to continue testing it at the U20 Women’s World Cup 2024.
According to FIFA, such matches will not require VAR referees, thus reducing operational costs. Players can appeal a decision, but the final call on whether to review the incident will rest with the head coaches of the two teams.
FIFA hopes that this new approach with VS technology will make video review technology more accessible to various leagues and tournaments worldwide, rather than restricting VAR to certain competitions due to high costs.
This new system aims to ensure fair play and accuracy while maintaining cost efficiency, potentially revolutionizing how video technology is integrated into football at all levels. By enabling teams to have a say in the review process, FIFA is looking to balance the competitive nature of the game with technological advancements.
The success of this experiment could pave the way for broader adoption of the technology, providing a more dynamic and responsive approach to officiating in football.
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