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Gianni Infantino responds to VAR controversy

Gianni Infantino, VAR test 2016 - Press Conference
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FIFA’s President was questioned about the role of VAR at a virtual meeting of the FIFA Council held today.

Ever since the Video Assistant Referee was introduced back in 2018, it has divided opinions in the football world. Some believe it has been beneficial while others feel like it has taken away certain exciting aspects of the game.

As several players have recently stated their views on the use of this technology, FIFA’s president has jumped to its defense.

“I think that VAR is helping football, it’s certainly not damaging football,” he said. “We have to remember VAR was introduced for the first time two years ago, not 20 years ago.”

Gianni Infantino believes the controversy isn’t related to VAR itself, but the way it has been used by certain referees.

“Let’s not forget this really is a landmark change for a referee who didn’t grow up with VAR,” he claimed.

The Swiss-Italian lawyer understands that the offside ruling has been at the center of the debate and argued this has nothing to do with VAR. He declared that the marginal offside subject is an interesting one. Moreover, Infantino stated that experts can propose changes to the rules.

‘Marginal offside’ is the term for when the lines are almost too close to call.

In his opinion, there should be an open conversation on whether offside football should be aided by eliminating marginal offsides. However, he feels this depends on the country and its football culture.

“It’s interesting to see in these discussions you have usually split views and opinions. The strikers and midfielders are very favorable to having a more open offside rule. The goalkeepers and defenders are a little bit more worried about that, but this is part of the game.”

Infantino hinted it’s impossible to please everyone, as some will praise VAR for helping referees with nearly-impossible decisions, while others will judge it for taking away some of the game’s drama.

In conclusion, the FIFA President remembered that VAR hasn’t been forced on anyone: “VAR is not an obligation, it’s there to help. Those who don’t want to use it, they are not obliged to use it.”

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