Italian football is set to undergo a significant transformation with the introduction of on-field Video Assistant Referee (VAR) announcements. This change, confirmed by Italian refereeing chief Gianluca Rocchi, will see referees explaining VAR decisions in real-time within the stadium, mirroring the system implemented at the Club World Cup.
The decision to introduce on-field VAR announcements was made following approval from IFAB (International Football Association Board). This major shift was announced during Serie A's season presentation conference earlier this week. Both Gianluca Rocchi, who heads Serie A and B referees, and Antonio Zappi, president of the Italian Referees Association (AIA), addressed this update.
This move towards transparency aims to keep fans informed about crucial decisions that can significantly impact match outcomes. It also aligns with global trends in sports broadcasting and officiating that prioritize fan engagement and understanding.
Testing phase
Before its official implementation in Serie A for the 2025–26 season, this new system underwent rigorous testing during last season’s Coppa Italia semi-finals and final. However, no VAR interventions occurred during these matches that required its use.
The system was also put into practice at the Club World Cup held this summer. The successful execution of on-field VAR announcements at these events paved the way for their regular inclusion in Serie A games moving forward.
Italian refereeing chief, Gianluca Rocchi, said:
“The big news for next season will be on-field announcements. The referee will be able to explain the decision made after a VAR intervention directly to the stadium and on TV. This is an important step forward in communication, which we have been managing transparently for years,”
“Now, however, the explanations will be in real-time, in front of everyone. We will prepare thoroughly, especially from a communication standpoint. We have a selected group and want to standardize language and content to be clear with the public.
“There is no maximum time limit for on-field announcements because every referee has their own style, language, and reaction times. We still need to work on standardizing the content of the explanations. But we will not impose strict limits: the quality of communication will matter most.”
Italy follows England's lead
Italy isn't pioneering this change among Europe's top five football nations; England took that honor earlier this year. In January 2025, referee Stuart Atwell became England's first referee to explain a VAR decision using stadium announcement during a Carabao Cup match between Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool FC.
Despite not being first off-the-mark among Europe's elite football nations, Italy's decision to implement on-field VAR announcements is a significant step towards enhancing the matchday experience for fans. It also signals a shift in the role of referees, who will now be tasked with not only making crucial decisions but also communicating them effectively to thousands of spectators.
The introduction of on-field VAR announcements in Serie A represents an exciting development for sports fans and sports betting enthusiasts alike. This change promises to enhance transparency and understanding during matches, ultimately enriching the viewing experience. As we look forward to the 2025–26 season, it will be interesting to see how this new system impacts both on-pitch action and off-pitch discussions among fans and pundits.
