Singapore introduces the video assistant referee (VAR) system for the upcoming SPL season to enhance officiating quality and increase the possibility of hosting major tournaments. VAR aims to reduce errors in critical decisions, bolstered by support from FIFA and extensive training for local referees. The initiative seeks to add excitement to matches while ensuring a fair playing environment for all teams involved.
Singapore is set to implement the video assistant referee (VAR) system in its professional football league, the Singapore Premier League (SPL), starting this season. The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) received FIFA’s approval for VAR, marking Singapore as the 11th Asian country to adopt this technology in league play, aiming to enhance local refereeing and elevate the country’s football standards.
The introduction of VAR technology targets reducing incorrect officiating decisions, particularly those involving disallowed goals due to offside calls. Mr. Nazeer Hussain, FAS’s director of referees, emphasized that teams invest significant resources and effort and should achieve fair and just results, aiming for high refereeing standards in the SPL.
VAR will mainly focus on crucial moments within the penalty area, but it can only apply in cases where the on-field referee has made a clear and obvious error or when a serious incident has been overlooked. The VAR team is centrally managed by a three-member group stationed at the FAS headquarters, equipped with comprehensive camera feeds from the stadium.
Referee Muhammad Taqi Aljaafari, who previously assisted with VAR during the FIFA World Cup, noted the transparency of the system as it allows direct communication between the VAR and on-field referees. The training for VAR commenced approximately a year ago, with support from both professional and amateur clubs, ensuring a robust understanding and implementation of the technology.
Financially, the VAR system does not impose additional costs on the clubs, as FIFA covers most expenses, while the FAS manages the operation. Players and coaches anticipate benefits from VAR, with some suggesting it could enhance the game’s suspense and excitement during crucial decision-making moments.
Lion City Sailors captain Hariss Harun expressed that VAR adds an element of drama whenever referees consult the pitch-side monitor, creating an atmosphere of anticipation. Head coach Risto Vidaković also noted VAR’s pivotal role in addressing scenarios that referees might miss, like offside situations or penalty calls.
FIFA is committed to supporting the SPL’s VAR implementation for the next three seasons. The new SPL season is set to begin on Sunday, featuring champion Albirex Niigata facing Hougang United in the Community Shield.
Original Source: www.channelnewsasia.com
