In a move to enhance transparency, referees will now explain VAR decisions directly to fans in the stadium and viewers at home during the Italian Cup semi-finals and final, Serie A announced on Monday.
The initiative will be tested during the two-legged semi-finals—which include a highly anticipated Milan derby—and the final in May. Using new audio technology, match officials will communicate the reasoning behind decisions made after on-field reviews. These occur when referees, alerted by the VAR control room, reassess incidents using pitch-side monitors.
Additionally, starting this weekend, Serie A matches will introduce “VARDict”, a system that displays updates on stadium big screens whenever a decision is under VAR review or has been overturned.
The league’s decision follows growing calls for greater clarity in VAR rulings, aiming to reduce confusion and improve the fan experience. If successful, the system could be expanded to more competitions in the future.
Referees to Explain VAR Decisions Live in Italian Cup Matches
