Spanish FA moves to overhaul VAR amid growing distrust from clubs and fans

The Spanish Football Federation, led by Rafael Louzán, is not turning a blind eye to the growing frustration among teams and supporters. There is clear dissatisfaction with how VAR is being used in both LaLiga EA Sports and LaLiga Hypermotion, prompting efforts to introduce changes not only in its application but also in the personnel overseeing matches from the VOR (video operation room). A shift is already underway, though Fran Soto remains the central figure and public face of the Technical Committee of Referees, enjoying full backing from the federation.

At the start of the season, the federation introduced the so-called Football Video Support system in the Primera Federación, the third tier of the men’s game. Its main difference from LaLiga’s VAR, beyond the lower cost, is that it is activated at the request of coaches. Each team has two review opportunities, though they retain their challenge if the original decision is overturned. It can be used for goals, penalties, straight red cards, and cases of mistaken identity. There is no VOR as such, removing uncertainty around when and how interventions occur, an issue highlighted in recent matchdays at La Cartuja and Vallecas, where VAR misuse was widely acknowledged – in one case due to inaction, in the other due to overuse.

A reform that would not eliminate the VOR

Confidence in VAR is fading across the sport, and the federation’s priority is to restore trust. As a first step, they are exploring the possibility of allowing coach-initiated reviews in professional soccer. This goes beyond the federation’s authority – LaLiga is also in favor – and would require FIFA approval as the global governing body for refereeing. The VOR would remain in place, but teams would gain the ability to demand reviews of specific incidents, rather than relying solely on on-field referees to decide whether to consult the monitor without clear justification.

Looking ahead to next season, there will be a significant rethink of how video assistant referees are selected. The practice of using VAR roles as a refuge for officials nearing the end of their careers, often with declining evaluations, is set to end. A dedicated VAR group was already introduced this season, but further steps will be taken to refine selection criteria, focusing on timing and performance level.

For on-field referees, the aim is to reinforce meritocracy. Selection will be based on current performance rather than past achievements. The intention is to reshape the refereeing landscape based on each season’s output, putting an end to effectively permanent positions for some officials.

FIFA concern over Spanish refereeing standards

At the federation’s headquarters, there is awareness of concern within FIFA regarding the overall standard of Spanish refereeing. The belief is that a league of Spain’s stature should be officiated at a higher level. While Hernández Hernández’s inclusion in the World Cup has helped preserve some pride, Pierluigi Collina, FIFA’s top refereeing authority, is demanding more.

Within the federation, there is a sense that VAR itself has contributed to the issue. While referees have often demonstrated reliability, the current environment has created confusion. The federation has publicly supported officials and even pushed for Hernández Hernández to travel to North America with his full team, but it also acknowledges the need for meaningful change to improve both public perception and professional confidence in refereeing.

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