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Tuesday, August 11, 2026
Updated 23 minutes ago
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UEFA refs’ chief criticizes VAR decisions as ‘not football’

Roberto Rosetti, UEFA's referees' chief, says some VAR reviews were disconnected from the spirit of football.
Sports · August 11, 2026 · 2 hours ago · 2 min read · AI Summary · BBC Sport
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Single-source rewrite; limited independent verification

The head of UEFA’s refereeing body has openly criticized certain Video Assistant Referee (VAR) decisions, stating they do not align with the essence of the game. Roberto Rosetti, UEFA’s referees’ chief, emphasized that some reviews were disconnected from football, sparking debate over VAR’s role in the sport.

Key Facts

  • Roberto Rosetti, UEFA’s referees’ chief, criticized some VAR decisions as “not connected with football.”
  • The comments were reported by BBC Sport.
  • The criticism reflects ongoing debates about VAR’s impact on football.

What sparked the criticism?

Rosetti’s remarks highlight a growing concern among football officials and fans about the consistency and application of VAR. While the technology was introduced to reduce errors, its subjective nature has led to contentious decisions that some argue disrupt the flow of the game.

How has VAR changed football?

Since its introduction, VAR has been a divisive tool in football. Supporters argue it brings fairness, while critics claim it slows down matches and undermines referees’ authority. Rosetti’s comments add weight to calls for refining VAR protocols to better serve the sport.

What We Know — and What We Don’t

Verified by the source:

  • Roberto Rosetti made critical remarks about VAR decisions.
  • The criticism was reported by BBC Sport.

Still unconfirmed:

  • Which specific VAR decisions Rosetti was referring to.
  • Whether UEFA plans to adjust VAR protocols in response.

Why It Matters

Rosetti’s criticism underscores the tension between technological aid and the human element in football. As VAR continues to evolve, his remarks may influence future discussions on how best to implement the system without alienating fans or compromising the sport’s integrity.

What To Watch

Football authorities may address Rosetti’s concerns in upcoming meetings, potentially leading to changes in how VAR is applied in UEFA competitions.

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