In a recent chat on ZDF's "Copa TS" podcast, Bundesliga referee Deniz Aytekin (45) proposed an intriguing thought: sharing referee decisions directly with stadium crowds, using video evidence, to boost acceptance of calls. Aytekin is all for this concept and disagrees with potential concerns.
This suggestion isn't entirely groundbreaking. Officials at the Club World Cup and subsequent global events, such as the Women's World Cup and U17 World Cup, have already engaged in this practice by providing clarification through video evidence. The Bundesliga contemplating adopting this model in 2024 is contingent upon a successful one-year trial, supervised by IFAB.
Fans in stadiums have typically been apprised of VAR reviews through notifications on video screens, while TV viewers get a glimpse of actual VAR images. However, main referee Jochen Drees (43) supports extending this access to VAR images to both stadium spectators and television viewers during reviews.
Although IFAB hasn't directly examined the use of referee explanations and VAR images within stadiums, the Bundesliga is conducting a trial. This endeavor aligns with overall objectives to strengthen trust and transparency in refereeing procedures, potentially inspiring other European leagues. The Premier League, too, has declared intentions to adopt a similar approach.
[1]: FIFA World Cup and international matches use VAR and referee explanations for key decisions, communicating them to fans via broadcasts and announcements.
[2]: The Premier League aims to introduce semi-automated offside technology to empower referees, enabling them to explain VAR decisions to fans and boost transparency.
[3]: The Bundesliga has pioneered advancements in refereeing technology, including the use of VAR.
[4]: The FIFA Disciplinary Code puts referee decisions on the field as final unless an obvious error is present. In such instances, FIFA judicial bodies may reconsider disciplinary consequences.
[5]: The Premier League praises its refereeing standards and VAR applications, reporting improved accuracy and efficiency in decision-making.
