The Spanish football league, La Liga, is on the brink of a significant transformation. The Spanish Referees Committee is gearing up to introduce a revolutionary Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system starting from the 2025/26 season. This move aims to enhance transparency and minimize controversy in one of the world's most-watched football leagues.
According to COPE Radio, this new system will empower each team's manager with two VAR challenge opportunities per match. If a coach's challenge results in overturning an incorrect decision, they retain their right to make another appeal during the same game. However, if the referee’s call is upheld after review, no additional challenges will be granted.
This groundbreaking change comes on the heels of a tumultuous season that witnessed Real Madrid’s official media regularly criticising referees' decisions. This led to multiple lawsuits filed by the referees union against the club.
What changes can fans expect?
The new VAR system brings several changes designed to improve fairness and reduce disputes.
The new VAR system introduces several key changes. Firstly, referees will now consult the VAR at a coach's request, marking a significant shift in decision-making power. Secondly, this innovative concept was inspired by influential football managers like Xabi Alonso and Hansi Flick, who have long advocated for increased transparency in the game.
Thirdly, the new approach has been trialed under FIFA’s cutting-edge Video Football Support (VFS) system, indicating its alignment with global standards. Lastly, it's worth noting that this system has already undergone successful testing in Women’s U17 & U20 World Cups - further proof of its potential effectiveness and reliability.
FIFA and IFAB approval
Pierluigi Collina, FIFA referee chief, confirmed that this novel system is under close scrutiny. Having received approval from International Football Association Board (IFAB) last March, it could soon become standard practice in top leagues worldwide.
This VAR revolution in La Liga matches is set to bring about a significant shift in how football matches are officiated. It promises to increase transparency, reduce controversy, and ensure a fairer game for all involved. As sports fans and sports betting enthusiasts, this development brings an exciting new dimension to the beautiful game of football.
