European football’s governing body, UEFA, has officially announced a review of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) usage at the end of the 2025/26 season. The move comes amid growing debates about how VAR is applied in big matches and whether it sometimes interrupts the flow of the game.
VAR was originally introduced to correct clear and obvious mistakes on the pitch, such as offsides, mistaken identity, and disputed goals. Its purpose was to support referees without taking over the game. However, UEFA’s head of refereeing, Roberto Rosetti, has expressed concern that VAR may now be overused, particularly in subjective decisions like handballs or fouls. He warns that the system risks becoming too “microscopic,” focusing on minor details rather than major, match-changing incidents.
Roberto Rosetti explained that interventions in minor situations can slow down matches and frustrate players, coaches, and fans. While factual calls like offsides are generally handled accurately, subjective decisions often lead to inconsistency and debate, reducing trust in the system.
UEFA plans to conduct a formal review at the end of the season, focusing on streamlining VAR interventions, concentrating on clear and obvious errors, and ensuring consistency across European competitions. The review will also look at improving training and protocols for VAR officials. This could reshape how referees and video officials work together, affecting both domestic leagues and UEFA tournaments like the Champions League and Europa League.
VAR has undoubtedly improved fairness in football by correcting major errors. Yet, when overused, it can disrupt the flow of the game and take away from the excitement that fans expect. UEFA’s review signals that change may be coming, aiming to balance accuracy with the natural rhythm and drama of football. For fans, the key takeaway is clear: expect fewer interruptions for minor incidents and a stronger focus on decisions that truly affect match outcomes.