The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) has announced plans to review the use of video assistant referees (VAR) at the end of the season, amid warnings that the technology is becoming “too forensic” and overly intrusive in European football.
Speaking at the UEFA Congress on Thursday, UEFA’s Head of Refereeing, Roberto Rosetti, acknowledged that VAR functions effectively for factual decisions like offsides but said subjective calls, particularly handballs, have led to excessive interventions.
“At the end of the season, we need to speak about this. We cannot go in this direction of microscopic VAR interventions. We love football like it is,” Rosetti said.
The Premier League currently has the lowest VAR intervention rate among Europe’s top leagues this season at 0.27 per game. Bundesliga and La Liga follow at 0.38, Serie A at 0.44, and Ligue 1 at 0.47, while the UEFA Champions League averages 0.45 interventions per game.
Rosetti attributed the increase in subjective reviews partly to fan and media pressure, frequently asking, “Where is VAR?” He emphasized that the system exists to ensure justice and correct decisions on the pitch, particularly in clear-cut situations.
A key concern for UEFA is the inconsistent interpretation of handball laws across domestic leagues. Rosetti stressed the need for European football to adopt “one technical language” to reduce confusion, especially for clubs competing in continental tournaments.
Rosetti also voiced opposition to expanding VAR’s remit. The International Football Association Board (IFAB) is expected to consider including corners and second yellow cards in VAR reviews during its February 28 meeting. “What is crucial is one concept we cannot delay the restart of play. Football is intensity, is emotions,” he said.
At a recent referees’ meeting, officials were instructed to monitor players going to ground too easily and to watch blocking actions on goalkeepers during corners that prevent them from playing the ball.
Rosetti further expressed caution regarding a proposed offside rule change backed by former Arsène Wenger, which would require a clear daylight between attacker and defender. He warned that the change could create large spaces for attackers and disrupt tactical balance. Trials are expected in the Canadian Premier League from April, subject to IFAB approval.
With debates intensifying over VAR and technology in football, UEFA’s end-of-season review aims to strike a balance between accuracy and the flow of the game.
Elijah Adeyemi
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