Football's Rulemakers Launch Comprehensive VAR Review and Plan 'Vinicius Law'
Football's lawmaking authority, the International Football Association Board (Ifab), has announced a significant two-year review of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system. This initiative aims to ensure the technology is utilized to its fullest potential, addressing widespread concerns over its implementation and impact on the game.
Expanded VAR Powers Before World Cup
In a series of enhancements to the rulebook, Ifab confirmed that VAR's powers will be extended into three new areas ahead of the upcoming World Cup finals. These changes are set to be implemented by June, marking a pivotal shift in how video technology influences match outcomes.
First, VAR will now have the authority to review and correct any red card decision stemming from a clearly incorrect second yellow card. This move aims to reduce errors in disciplinary actions that can drastically alter game dynamics.
Second, officials will be empowered to intervene when referees mistakenly punish the wrong team for an offence, ensuring fairness in critical moments.
Finally, VAR will be able to review clearly incorrectly awarded corner kicks, though only under the condition that such reviews can be completed immediately without delaying the restart of play. This addition seeks to maintain the flow of the game while enhancing accuracy in set-piece decisions.
Fast-Tracked 'Vinicius Law' and Disciplinary Measures
Another key proposal involves fast-tracking punishments for players who obscure their mouths during confrontations with opponents. This measure, dubbed the 'Vinicius Law,' comes in response to incidents like the alleged racist abuse of Vinícius Júnior by Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni, highlighting efforts to combat discriminatory behavior on the pitch.
Ifab is conducting a fast-tracked consultation on this issue, with both mouth-covering and unilaterally leaving the field as an act of protest—as seen in the Senegal national side during this year's Afcon final—likely to result in yellow cards. These disciplinary actions underscore a broader push to uphold sportsmanship and integrity in football.
VAR Review and Philosophical Debates
The VAR review was confirmed by Ifab's technical director, David Elleray, on the 10th anniversary of the decision to first trial video technology. Elleray emphasized the need for a thorough evaluation, stating, "We have agreed today that after 10 years we should be reviewing VAR to see where we want to go with it in the future."
He highlighted the contrasting philosophies within football: "Some want as far as possible perfect decision making, while others say we have to accept that refereeing errors are part of the game." This debate reflects ongoing tensions between technological precision and the traditional human element of officiating.
Mark Bullingham, chief executive of the English FA, supported the review, noting the importance of innovation in VAR application. He praised FIFA's semi-autonomous offside technology for its speed and accuracy, which reduces fan frustration. Bullingham also suggested exploring systems like the Football Video Support, which allows coaches to challenge decisions, potentially reducing unnecessary VAR interventions.
Reflections on VAR's First Decade
Pierluigi Collina, chair of the FIFA referee's committee, encapsulated the first decade of VAR with a metaphor at the AGM: "In Italy we are used to saying that, in every wonderful marriage, there is a crisis after seven years. So it might be possible that people fell in love with the VAR and then after some years, as with your wife, you have a small crisis." This analogy underscores the mixed reception VAR has received since its first semi-live trial in 2016 during a men's international friendly between France and Italy.
Despite its integration into top-level football, VAR has driven widespread dissatisfaction due to delays in decision-making and matches being determined by marginal outcomes. The review aims to address these issues while preserving the benefits of video technology.
New Measures to Tackle Time-Wasting
In addition to VAR enhancements, Ifab introduced new measures to combat time-wasting and disruption of match tempo. Building on the successful eight-second rule for goalkeepers, referees will now have the power to start a five-second countdown if players take too long over throw-ins and dead-ball goal kicks. Sanctions include reversing the throw-in or awarding a corner kick for delays.
Furthermore, substitutions must be completed within 10 seconds; otherwise, the substitute must stay off the field for at least one minute. These rules aim to maintain the pace and excitement of football, ensuring a more dynamic viewing experience for fans worldwide.
