Uefa refereeing chief Roberto Rosetti has criticized the current implementation of video assistant referee (VAR) technology, arguing that some interventions have drifted away from the spirit of the game. Following discussions with leadership from major European leagues, Rosetti introduced a resource called Clear Line to clarify appropriate VAR usage.
Rosetti emphasized that the sport should not be treated like a video game. He insisted that officials must prioritize the flow of play, suggesting that VAR should be reserved solely for addressing clear and obvious errors. Concerns were also raised regarding excessive review times, which Rosetti believes erode the credibility of the officiating process. He noted that any check lasting beyond 90 seconds is problematic.
The data shows significant inconsistency in how rules are applied across Europe, particularly regarding handball penalties. While the Premier League recorded the lowest rate of VAR intervention, other competitions varied widely. To address this, authorities have agreed on a new protocol for on-field reviews that limits the number of replays and focuses on intensity and context. Ultimately, the goal is to return authority to the referees on the pitch.
