Refereeing in the Champions League: UEFA adjusts the rules (official)

With the knockout stage approaching, UEFA has officially announced several adjustments to refereeing guidelines. Ahead of the competition's resumption, Europe's referees gathered to receive new instructions designed to make matches more consistent and fluid.

VAR: intervention only for clear and obvious errors

The directive is straightforward: VAR should only intervene in cases of "clear and obvious error." According to Rosetti, the technology remains effective for straightforward factual decisions, such as offside calls. However, there will be no more "microscopic" analysis of incidents open to interpretation.

Expected outcome:

• fewer lengthy interruptions,
• greater flow in the game,
• more responsibility given to the on-field referee.

Safety and discipline at the heart of new directives

UEFA is also emphasizing player protection. Referees are instructed to be stricter with dangerous challenges, particularly in technical areas where tensions often run high. Another key issue: simulation. Acts aimed at provoking a refereeing decision will be more closely monitored and penalized.

Dialogue limited to the captain

The protocol remains unchanged: only the team captain is permitted to discuss major decisions with the referee, especially during VAR reviews. The goal is to limit mass protests and improve respect on the pitch.

Regarding handball offenses, referees will need to consider:

• the player’s intent,
• the natural position of the arm,
• the context of the ball contact.

These adjustments will come into force this week in the Champions League and may also be applied in the UEFA Europa League and UEFA Europa Conference League.

Aliou Toundé |

Editorfr