On May 11, well-known sports commentator Huang Jianxiang shared his views on the use of VAR by referees on social media.
Huang pointed out that in many recent high-profile football matches both domestically and internationally, VAR interventions on key decisions have sparked intense debate. Initially designed to pursue “absolute fairness and justice,” this technical tool has now led many fans to doubt its effectiveness. Instead of achieving the ideal of near-perfect fairness, it has sometimes sacrificed what could have been “relative reasonableness.” The inconsistency in when VAR is used, as well as contradictions in the criteria and standards for decisions even when it is employed, has damaged the viewing experience, turning it into a sunk cost for fans.
While it might be an exaggeration to say there is widespread dissatisfaction, it is a frustrating reality that supporters of any team can easily recall cases where their team has “suffered” due to VAR. Since the work of referees is part of the game and broadcast live to viewers, Huang argued that the most decisive part of refereeing — the VAR process, including everything that happens in the review room and the conversations between officials — should also be presented to the audience without any blind spots. This would prevent fans from engaging in wild speculation. In other words, if a decision goes against a team, at least let them understand clearly why.
Huang concluded by expressing curiosity about whether there will be any new developments in this area at the upcoming World Cup.