Potential Evolution of VAR
The head of Premier League referees, Howard Webb, has indicated a possibility for the video assistant referee (VAR) system to evolve beyond its current uses. Webb mentioned that the International Football Association Board (IFAB), which oversees the regulations for football, is considering extending VAR’s capabilities, which have been utilized in the Premier League since the 2019-20 season. He expressed openness to the idea if stakeholders believe it would benefit the game.
Current Uses of VAR
Currently, VAR is employed to analyze critical game-altering decisions such as goals, straight red cards, penalties, and cases of mistaken identity. However, Webb highlighted that the technology could potentially be applied to situations involving yellow cards and corner kicks. He remarked to BBC Sport,
“When it comes to yellow cards that are wrongly handed out, we should also consider instances where players deserved one but did not receive it. A wrongly awarded corner kick is another clear situation where video can be extremely useful.”
Concerns About Official Treatment
The debate around VAR comes alongside ongoing concerns about the treatment of match officials. Recently, notable referees have faced severe online abuse, including death threats aimed at Michael Oliver and confrontations faced by Anthony Taylor following a Europa League match. Webb referred to this behavior as
“a reflection of society today,”
emphasizing that disagreements with officiating outcomes do not justify the harassment of officials or threats against their safety and their families.
Referee David Coote’s Situation
In related news, Webb confirmed that referee David Coote‘s prospects for returning to top-flight officiating are grim. Coote was dismissed last December by the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) after derogatory remarks he made regarding Liverpool and its former manager Jurgen Klopp surfaced. Recently, the Football Association imposed an eight-week suspension on him and mandated face-to-face educational sessions. Webb commented on Coote’s situation, stating,
“Given the circumstances, it’s hard to see a way back for him, though we do keep in touch and wish him well,”
emphasizing the complexities of restoring trust after misconduct.
