Berlin – The opening round of this season’s German Cup will be marked by organized fan protests aimed at ending the use of video assistant referee (VAR) technology. Several supporter groups, representing clubs that begin the competition this weekend, have issued a joint statement calling for the abolition of VAR in German football.
Fans cite emotion and flow of the game
The statement, circulated among fan bases by the news agency DPA, argues that football should be played “without VAR and thus authentic, immediate, and full of emotion.” It claims that the interruptions caused by video reviews have “destroyed the game’s most emotional moments” and that even previously supportive fans now view the system as harmful after nine years of use.
Technical and financial constraints limit VAR in round one
For the first round, which involves 64 teams—including Bundesliga sides Eintracht Frankfurt and Stuttgart facing lower‑league opponents—VAR will not be available. Organizers cite technical and financial reasons for the omission. Starting with the second round, VAR will be reintroduced, expanding the video assistant’s powers to intervene in cases of unjustified second yellow cards and incorrect cautions or dismissals, though it will not review corner‑kick decisions.
Past fan actions provide context
German supporters have a history of disrupting matches to voice dissent, using tactics such as throwing tennis balls onto the pitch or setting off pyrotechnics. The previous season’s German Cup final was played amid smoke from fan‑launched fireworks, underscoring the intensity of fan sentiment surrounding officiating and technology.
Implications for the competition
The planned protests could affect match atmospheres and potentially lead to security measures at venues across the country. While the German Football Association (DFB) has not responded publicly to the fan statement, the organization has emphasized its commitment to improving officiating accuracy through VAR, especially as the technology becomes more integrated into higher‑level matches.
Looking ahead
As the cup progresses, the debate over VAR’s role in German football is likely to continue. Supporters argue that the sport’s traditional rhythm and spontaneity are being compromised, while officials maintain that video review is essential for fairness. The outcome of the protests and any subsequent dialogue with the DFB may shape how technology is applied in future German competitions.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
