VAR decisions should be made faster. © APA/afp / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV

“No Playstation decisions”: UEFA rethinks VAR

This season, there should be fewer, more uniform and faster video evidence decisions in the European football leagues.

August 11, 2026

From: dpa/sn

UEFA referee chief Roberto Rosetti announced in a virtual press conference that VAR reviews of match situations should no longer take longer than 60 to 90 seconds. He stated that the measure is intended to address "clear and obvious incorrect decisions, nothing else," according to Kicker.

Furthermore, potential red cards will again be judged more on the context of the challenge and not solely on the so-called "contact pattern." While still images will continue to be shown, the entire sequence of events will then be displayed in real time. "We're not making decisions like on a PlayStation," said Rosetti. "The football context is important."

Rosetti wants courageous referees

The former top Italian referee urged officials not to overemphasize replays and, when in doubt, to stick with the decisions made on the pitch. "We are happy for every referee who has the courage to do that. We want strong decision-makers with personality on the pitch; that remains paramount."

The new guidelines were initially drafted by the refereeing chiefs from Germany, England, France, Italy, and Spain. They were then voted on by all 55 UEFA members.