The utilization of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in football has been a topic of significant debate and deliberation in recent years. Gianluca Rocchi, the Serie A refereeing designator, has recently divulged that FIFA is in the process of developing a new stage of VAR protocol. Despite initial skepticism, Rocchi has developed an appreciation for the advantages of VAR, stating that he felt a ‘burden lifted off my shoulders’ when using the technology for the first time.
In contrast to the Premier League, where there was a vote to prohibit the use of VAR, the discourse in Italy revolves around the desire for more frequent implementation of VAR. Particularly, there are calls for coaches to have the ability to ‘request’ a VAR On-Field Review without having to wait for the officials to identify a ‘clear and obvious error’ first.
Rocchi has stated that there will be adjustments to the regulations in the upcoming season, with a focus on the interpretation of handball in the penalty area. Additionally, considerations are being made to introduce VAR on call for youth teams, although this initiative is currently in the early stages of development by FIFA and does not involve professional football at present.
As a former referee, Rocchi initially had reservations about the introduction of VAR, finding it disconcerting to be informed of a mistake during or after a match. However, his perspective changed when he used the VAR monitor to rectify a decision for the first time. He described the experience as liberating, as it alleviated him from the pressure of potentially impacting the result of the game.
Moreover, Rocchi has expressed frustration towards younger referees who do not fully comprehend the benefits of VAR, emphasizing how he wished the technology had been available during his 13-year career as a referee.
One of the reasons for VAR being more widely accepted in Italy compared to England is the comprehensive explanation of the protocol and decision-making process provided by various television channels. This includes the introduction of the DAZN programme Open VAR, where the actual footage and audio from the officials is aired, with a current figure from the refereeing community, often designator Rocchi himself, offering insights into the decisions made and any potential errors.
The Open VAR programme has allowed referees to share the intricate dialogue between the referee and the Video Assistant Referee, providing viewers with a deeper understanding of the decision-making process. This initiative has been described as a positive experience that has shed light on the challenges faced by referees.
In conclusion, the ongoing developments and discussions surrounding VAR protocol continue to shape the landscape of football officiating. As FIFA works on refining the VAR protocol and incorporating it into different levels of the sport, it is clear that the use of technology in football is here to stay. Despite the controversies, there is a growing understanding of the benefits that VAR brings to the game, not only for the officials but also for the fans and players.