Ever since its introduction, VAR has been a source of division among football enthusiasts. If a decision favours one’s team, there is a tendency to support VAR, but if not, the disdain for the technology becomes evident. While this back-and-forth banter was once considered amusing, it has now become a serious and contentious issue.
The International Football Association Board (IFAB) is considering the expansion of VAR to include corners, free kicks, and yellow cards. This potential move raises concerns about the potential impact on the integrity of the game.
Before the implementation of VAR, human referees were often blamed for errors, yet their fallibility was ultimately forgiven due to their humanity. However, VAR was intended to eliminate these mistakes, yet it has only resulted in further controversy. Every moment of the game is now analysed in intricate detail, leading to an increase in errors.
Many football enthusiasts are questioning whether VAR is inherently flawed, and whether it is time to acknowledge that, despite good intentions, it may not be feasible. There are also suggestions to suspend its use for a period in the hope that a renewed desire for video technology might emerge.
In attempting to comprehend the chaos brought about by VAR, questions arise regarding the potential motives behind the extensive VAR checks. Is it possible that these interruptions serve the interests of certain parties? Could it be a strategy to increase TV advertising revenue? With the growing investment in football from American entities, there are concerns that the sport could be influenced to generate greater profits. The fact that approximately half of the Premier League clubs have financial backing from American sources makes this possibility difficult to ignore.
The concept of extended VAR checks to accommodate commercial breaks has led to speculation about a potential shift in the nature of the game. However, it is important to note that these ideas are purely speculative and should be approached with caution.
VAR was intended to enhance fairness and flow within the game, yet it has only resulted in greater confusion and controversy. As devoted football fans, it is crucial to demand accountability and reconsider whether VAR truly adds value to the sport. Its future hangs in the balance, and it is essential to determine whether it is worth preserving or if it is ultimately an experiment that should be discarded.