For the first time, referees at the 2023 World Cup will explain their video assistance referee (VAR) decisions to live audiences in the mold of NFL officials. Though, given the inherent imperfections of VAR, it’s created a notable controversy.
If you’re unfamiliar with the concept, let’s explain exactly what VAR is and why it’s become an item of derision for soccer fans.
If you watch any other sports with an instant replay element, that is, in essence, what VAR is. Except in soccer, it allows an officiating crew to review and attempt to make the right call on things like a close goal or pivotal offsides decision.
Sounds simple and vital at the highest levels of the game, right? Well, the issue is that VAR technology hasn’t always been up to snuff.
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In the past, it’s proven to be slow to follow the on-field action, and, in turn, muddying matters up on the replay. What’s more, it’s kind of against the spirit of the game. The entire point of soccer is that play is never supposed to stop save for one halftime break. But when a VAR review occurs, it delays play and hampers a nonstop pace.
Never mind that it’s not exactly fun to watch a review for seemingly trivial sequences like a player being an inch offside. Sure, they were technically breaking the rules — but where’s the human element to nitpick any sport like that?
The core idea behind VAR — ensuring pivotal calls are made correctly — is a noble one. But it needs a lot of fine-tuning before it becomes something soccer fans embrace with open arms.
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