Implementation of VAR Technology Tested in Indonesian Football Before Being Applied in BRI Liga 1 2023/2024

Video assistant referee (VAR) technology saw its debut in official matches in preparation for its introduction in the Indonesian football BRI Liga 1 2023/2024 season. The trial run took place during the EPA U-20 Liga 1 final clash between Persis Solo and Persita Tangerang at Manahan Stadium on Thursday. Despite Persis Solo emerging victorious with a 3-1 scoreline, VAR played a pivotal role in overturning a penalty decision initially awarded to Persita.

During the match, Persita was trailing when they were awarded a penalty after Kaka Reda seemed to be fouled by Surya Dharma in the penalty box in the 85th minute. However, VAR intervention led to a review of the incident by central referee Thoriq Alkatiri, resulting in the penalty being rescinded due to Kaka Reda being perceived to have simulated contact before the challenge by Surya Dharma.

M Syafiq Bahanan, the Indonesian VAR Technology Project Manager, expressed his hopes for the positive impact of VAR on improving the quality of Indonesian football. He assured that the necessary human resources trained to operate the technology were in place, following rigorous testing guided by FIFA standards.

Syafiq highlighted that all VAR equipment and operators adhered to the set standards for League 1 matches. The system was outfitted with eight surveillance cameras strategically positioned throughout the stadium to ensure comprehensive coverage without any blind spots.

Operating with one VAR referee, one VAR assistant referee, and one replay operator, the VAR setup involved a total of seven match officials, including the on-field referees. The implementation of VAR was initially scheduled for February but was postponed to the League 1 Championship Series due to the need for additional preparations, particularly in terms of human resources.

As preparations near completion, FIFA will assess the VAR trial period to gauge the technology’s effectiveness at the League 1 level. The monitoring room featured five 32-inch screens linked to the eight cameras on-site at Manahan Stadium, providing instant replay assistance to the main referee during crucial decisions.

With the successful introduction of VAR in the EPA U-20 Liga 1 final, Indonesian football edges closer to embracing technological advancements aimed at enhancing the game’s integrity and fairness, setting the stage for its formal implementation in the upcoming League 1 Championship Series.

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Meghnad Iyer

Meghnad Iyer, our Indian football enthusiast, is the voice behind the vibrant narratives covering the Indian Super League (ISL). Born and raised in the football-crazed nation of India, Meghnad's articles are a celebration of the excitement and fervor that define Indian football.