Roberto Rosetti, head of UEFA’s refereeing committee, stated that stadium screens across Germany will display “technical explanations” of VAR decisions to enhance spectator understanding.
One major criticism of VAR has been the lack of clarity for match-goers regarding certain decisions. “After the video review, the technical explanation of the decision will be shown on the giant screens in the stadiums,” Rosetti explained during a press briefing at the Allianz Arena, ahead of the tournament opener on Friday.
Rosetti provided an example of the type of information fans can expect: “Penalty, handball, Germany’s number nine touched the ball with his left hand, which was in an unnatural position, over his shoulder and extending away from his body.”
This follows a similar practice at the 2023 Women’s World Cup, where officials verbally announced decisions to spectators before resuming play.
Additionally, referees at Euro 2024 will be able to explain decisions to team captains. Other players who challenge decisions or demand explanations will be cautioned. This rule was enforced in the recent UEFA club competition finals, resulting in yellow cards for players in the Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League finals.
“We do this for the next generations… for football and the image of the game, for the young players and for the young referees,” said Rosetti.
For teams with a goalkeeper as captain, such as Italy and Slovenia, an outfield player will be designated to act as captain for these explanations.
🚨📺 𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆 | For VAR decisions at #EURO2024, there will be detailed explanations shown on TV and at the stadium, reports @npelletier18.
Here is an example of how it will work. ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/QGp7losswj
— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) June 12, 2024
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