Norway’s VAR Decision Captures Global Soccer Interest

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    This weekend, Norwegian soccer finds itself at a critical juncture, with a potential decision looming on whether to abolish video reviews from its premier league. This move comes after a rocky period since the implementation of the technology.

    The international soccer community will be paying close attention, as VAR — Video Assistant Referee — has significantly changed the dynamics of the sport globally since it was officially adopted into the rules in 2018. Below is an exploration of Norway’s journey to this point, the voting procedure to come, and why it carries weight.

    Norway introduced video technology to its national league in 2023, though the process was seen as controversial by many. The decision preceded a consensus among Norway’s club members on the desire for VAR, sparking dissatisfaction from some fans who perceived the democratic principles of Norwegian soccer as being compromised. Frustrations grew rapidly when an offside decision took seven minutes to be resolved through VAR in one of the first games.

    Dissatisfaction with VAR quickly translated into expressive protests, some taking uniquely creative forms. During a match between Rosenborg and Lillestrøm, supporters disrupted proceedings by throwing fish cakes and tennis balls onto the field, leading to the match being abandoned and later replayed without spectators. In Norway’s second division, Lyn’s fans tossed champagne corks onto the pitch to voice their disapproval of VAR. The surge in anti-VAR sentiment prompted the Norwegian soccer federation to establish a committee to delve deeper into the controversy. When clubs from Norway’s top two leagues voted in January, 19 out of 32 opted to discontinue VAR, while 13 favored retention. This outcome prompted a recommendation to the federation, urging the removal of VAR at the earliest opportunity.

    However, the Norwegian Football Association dealt a blow to VAR opponents a week later, publicly supporting the continuation of the technology. Lise Klaveness, the association’s president, stated the body recognized areas requiring enhancement but championed the advantages of retaining video officials. Klaveness maintained, “The governing body unanimously concluded that the best thing for Norwegian football is to maintain and develop it.” Anders Kjellevold, head of the Norwegian supporters’ alliance, expressed disillusionment, describing it as a betrayal that the clubs’ vote didn’t hold final sway in the matter. He emphasized, “Not listening to the clubs undermines club democracy and opposes what football should stand for.”

    An impending decision on VAR’s future will take place during the federation’s congress this Saturday and Sunday. All federated clubs, regional leaders, and board members will participate in the vote, with a majority required to effect change. VAR critics fear many clubs will align with the federation’s standpoint, echoing conventional practices to safeguard relationships with the governing body. Interestingly, most clubs eligible to vote don’t contend with VAR directly, as it is only operational in the top tier.

    Kjellevold articulates the persistent discontent among supporters, stating that VAR “is incompatible with the essence of football.” He argues that interruptions detract from the live viewing experience and dull the thrill surrounding goal moments, which are vital to how fans engage with the game given their investment of time and passion. Furthermore, he voices dissatisfaction with how the process has been managed, particularly the potential sidelining of teams primarily impacted by VAR.

    The broader implications of the Norwegian vote may extend beyond its borders; a decision to eliminate VAR could inspire fans around the globe to rally against the technology in their own leagues. As it stands, while countries like the Premier League uphold VAR’s use amidst recent controversies, nations like Sweden stand out in Europe for having decided against integrating VAR into their domestic competitions.