Referees will explain VAR-influenced in-game decisions to stadium crowds and television audiences at the 2023 Women’s World Cup, sources have told ESPN.
IFAB announced a 12-month trial in international tournaments back in January having followed up on recommendations made in October 2022. After successful trials at the FIFA Club World Cup and men’s Under-20 World Cup, decisions made by officials at this summer’s tournament will be broadcast over the stadium’s loud speaker system.
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It is a method of engagement already seen in NFL and at this summer’s tournament, spectators and those watching on TV will get an explanation of key decisions influenced by VAR via a microphone on the referee.
This will include incidents where VAR intervenes to overturn decisions, whether it be citing a potential red card, penalty or ruling a goal out for offside or foul play.
It is the first time this method will be adopted by a tier one FIFA tournament but sources have told ESPN its aim is to improve transparency on key…
