Watzke Pushes for Improved Video Refereeing in Bundesliga
Borussia Dortmund (BVB) managing director Hans-Joachim Watzke is still advocating for action on video refereeing (VAR) in German football. During the club's general meeting in Dortmund, Watzke, who also serves as Chairman of the German Football League (DFL) Supervisory Board and 1st Vice President of the German Football Association (DFB), voiced his concerns over the current VAR system, mentioning that he felt a "sense of liberation" during a cup match against Hoffenheim this season without VAR.
Watzke criticized the idea of a European Super League, stating that Borussia Dortmund will not be part of any such league, considering it too elitist. He expressed his support for improving VAR management in the Bundesliga, stating that if VAR is to have a better future in German soccer, it must be managed more effectively.
While Watzke did not specifically comment on improvements like public announcements, RefCam technology, referee training, and fan engagement in the article, these suggestions from the DFL and DFB Schiri GmbH could enhance transparency, fan understanding, and overall matchday experience. These measures involve:
- Public Announcements: Referees can make public announcements via stadium loudspeakers, providing transparency by explaining the reasoning behind VAR interventions and final decisions.
- RefCam Technology: By using RefCam technology, fans can gain a deeper understanding of the referee's perspective.
- Training and Coordination: Proper referee training will make it easier for them to adapt to new procedures.
- Fan Engagement: By involving fans in the decision-making process, the DFL and DFB Schiri GmbH aim to enhance fan engagement and understanding, leading to a more positive matchday experience for spectators.
Though not mentioned in the original article, Watzke's call for better VAR management could inspire the implementation of these measures in the Bundesliga.
