In a significant stride towards embracing modern technology, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has reached out to the International Football Association Board (IFAB), the authoritative body overseeing the laws of the game. The aim? To open discussions on the prospect of India becoming part of a trial run for Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology.
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AIFF Seeks VAR Integration in Indian Football
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has taken a significant step forward by reaching out to the International Football Association Board (IFAB) to express its interest in participating in the trial of the ‘Additional Video Review System’ (AVRS), more commonly known as VAR.
Initially introduced in FIFA events during the 2016-17 season, VAR has become a pivotal tool in supporting referees’ decision-making processes in crucial match situations. From goals and related offenses to penalty decisions, direct red card incidents, and cases of mistaken identity, VAR has significantly influenced the game.
AIFF President @kalyanchaubey evaluates the possibility of implementing ‘Additional Video Review System’ (AVRS) in India
— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) January 6, 2024
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AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey highlighted the federation’s motive, stating, “Our prime objective here is to reduce the margin of error by empowering match officials with the technology to assist in their decision-making.” This move underscores India’s commitment to enhancing the accuracy and fairness of football officiating through cutting-edge technology.
The global adoption of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology encounters hurdles, primarily linked to financial and infrastructure requirements established in FIFA’s Implementation Assistance and Approval Programme (IAAP). Currently, only around 30 percent of the 211 football-playing nations, predominantly in Europe and South America, boast VAR subscriptions, either for full domestic seasons or selective stages.
In response to these challenges, the President of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) proposes a strategic move. He suggests that the AIFF Referee Department conducts a comprehensive study to seek suggestions and approval from FIFA.
AIFF Eyes AVRS as a Strategic Step Amidst European VAR Controversies
The introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in European football has sparked intense debates, with the technology frequently under scrutiny for its inconsistency and peculiar decision-making processes.
In response to this, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) is considering an alternative route by expressing interest in the ‘Additional Video Review System’ (AVRS) for India. AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey stated, “While we will continue to work to implement VAR, I feel that, to begin with, AVRS can be a great option for a country like India.” The move is seen as an opportunity to study the impact of the technology, train match officials, and assess its adaptation by players, coaches, and clubs.
Given the criticism of poor refereeing standards in the Indian Super League, the AIFF’s push for VAR implementation appears strategic. The goal is to address and rectify officiating errors, enhancing the overall quality of football in the country.
The President’s recommendation involves extending the existing technical infrastructure to accommodate an ‘on-demand’ video review request from referees, utilizing a multi-angle, multi-camera broadcast feed.
While VAR has found its way into domestic club competitions in various countries globally, its widespread adoption faces limitations due to the financial and infrastructure requirements outlined in FIFA’s Implementation Assistance and Approval Programme (IAAP). The AIFF’s proactive approach signals a potential transformation in Indian football officiating, aiming for greater precision and fairness through advanced video review systems.
AIFF President Urges Accountability and Fair Play in Referee Review Meeting
In a virtual meeting on December 31, 2023, All India Football Federation (AIFF) President Mr. Kalyan Chaubey emphasized the urgent need for accountability within the Referee Department. Addressing continuous errors and mounting refereeing issues in India’s top two football leagues, the Indian Super League (ISL) and the I-League, Mr. Chaubey chaired the mid-season ‘Refereeing Review Meeting.’
The extensive four-hour meeting involved key officials, including Acting Secretary General M Satyanarayan, Treasurer Kipa Ajay, and various league and referee representatives. A total of 24 controversial Key Match Incidents (KMI) from ISL and I-League games were discussed, highlighting concerns over ‘plain-sight errors’ impacting fair play.
Mr. Chaubey urged individuals involved in referee regulations, match officials, and assessors to uphold ‘natural justice’ and address the grievances raised by clubs. Acknowledging the sport’s competitive growth in India, he stressed the importance of minimizing mistakes and ensuring fairness and consistency in decisions.
The AIFF has made substantial efforts in referee development, including the Elite Development Referee Programme and the appointment of Zonal Referee Development Officers. However, Mr. Chaubey emphasized the need for continuous improvement and adherence to international standards of rewards and consequences.
Calling on fans and club officials to understand the laws of the game, Mr. Chaubey suggested a follow-up meeting during the Kalinga Super Cup in Bhubaneswar. Additionally, the AIFF plans to convene ISL and I-League club coaches and managers for a meeting in Bhubaneswar, led by Chief Referee Officer Trevor Kettle, to discuss ‘Do’s and Don’ts’ for club officials and ensure collective decisions on refereeing matters.
