'Technology helps, but referees must have the final say': Masefield on VAR use in FIFA WC
New Delhi, June 16
Former English footballer and commentator Paul Masefield believes that, despite minor issues, VAR has played a positive role at the FIFA World Cup 2026, but stressed that technology should remain a support tool, with referees retaining the authority to make the final decision on the field.
While acknowledging the benefits VAR brings to the game, Masefield, who is a part of the expert panel for ZEE5's FIFA World Cup 2026 coverage, emphasised that referees must continue to play the central role in decision-making.
"So I think technology is helping to an extent, but I still think there should be the physical element with the referee who does have to make that final decision on whether he wants to overturn his decision or whether or not he wants to stick with his own decision," Masefield told IANS.
Masefield also called on referees to show greater conviction when assessing incidents, rather than feeling compelled to change decisions because of technological intervention. "And I personally like to see referees be a little bit stronger themselves and stick to their decisions," he added.
The opening week of the FIFA World Cup 2026 has been heavily shaped by high-profile VAR controversies that put FIFA's expanded technology under intense scrutiny. During the Qatar-Switzerland opener, a "technical outage" prevented the semi-automated offside system from broadcasting its 3D graphics, leaving fans and pundits furious over a lack of transparency regarding Switzerland's early penalty.
Off the pitch, Australian VAR official Shaun Evans triggered a major disciplinary investigation after flashing a controversial hand gesture on the live global broadcast feed from the Dallas VAR hub, though he was later cleared of any ethics code violations.
Despite the controversies, Masefield believes that the tournament has avoided the VAR delays, which happen in other competitions, and the technology is encouraging players to be more cautious in situations that could lead to reviews.
"I don't think we have really had one big major VAR decision throughout this World Cup so far. The little ones, yes and no. But there hasn't been a mega, mega hold-up for two or three minutes, which we see in the Premier League every week, where decisions need to be sorted out," he said.
"I think the VAR there is more of a deterrent for people. I think we are seeing behaviours from players to not get VAR to intervene," he added.
— IANS
Reader Comments
I get his point, but the Premier League delays he mentioned are exactly why we need more automation. If semi-automated offsides can be faster and more accurate, why not let it be the primary tool? Referees can still review for fouls and red cards. But I do agree—the human element matters, especially for subjective calls. VAR should be a safety net, not a crutch.
Interesting take! But there's a flip side—without VAR, we'd have more howlers like that 2010 ghost goal. Indian fans know all about questionable refereeing in big tournaments. I think Masefield underestimates how technology builds trust. The real issue is implementation, not whether the ref should have final say. Give them clear protocols and they can be stronger. That Australian VAR hub gesture controversy was ridiculous though—just shows tech staff need discipline too! 😅
Masefield's point about referees needing conviction is so important. I've watched games where refs run to the monitor just because the VAR hints at it, even when their initial call was correct. 'Stick to your gut, bhai!' But the technical outage shows we're not fully there yet. Technology is good, but the final call needs a human who understands the game's spirit. Otherwise it becomes robotic football. Good article! 👏
Couldn't disagree more. VAR has killed the celebration and spontaneity in football. Every goal now has that nervous pause. The Premier League example he gave is exactly why we should limit tech—those 2-3 minute delays are unbearable. As an Indian who's watched football for 20 years, I say let mistakes happen! It's part of the game's charm. The referee's authority should be absolute on the field. Technology for clear errors only, not for every millimeter offside. ⚽✋
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