The process to implement Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in OFC competitions has taken a big step forward, following the FIFA Individual VAR Kick-off meeting.
Taking place in December at the OFC Home of Football in Auckland, the two-day meeting included representatives from FIFA, Bhaveshan Moorghen, Takaaki Inokuchi and the OFC VAR project team.
The FIFA Individual VAR Kick-off meeting is a mandatory step in the VAR adoption process, that ensures a clear understanding of the project scope, requirements, documentation, deliverables and timeline.
The meeting opened with an introduction to FIFA Technology Standards followed by the Implementation Assistant and Approval Programme (IAAP) process, which highlights the five steps to be taken to implement VAR.
- Initial Planning
- Administrative Matters
- Training and preparation
- Approval
- Monitoring
FIFA experts Moorghen and Inokuchi shared insights into VAR technology and how it’s been implemented across other confederations and countries. They also honed in on areas such as referee education, communications, broadcasting, IT and data analysis, club and stadium coordination, finance and the legal/regulatory process in detail.
Over 20 people from every area and department at OFC were represented at the meeting. Head of Refereeing Kevin Stoltenkamp expressed his excitement, as it marked a significant milestone in bringing VAR to the region.
“The knowledge shared by FIFA experts and the collaboration across all departments has given us a clear path forward. We’re committed to ensuring this technology is introduced seamlessly to enhance our game in Oceania.”
With a clear roadmap to implementing VAR in Oceania, it’s now about ensuring each step of the IAAP process is taken. OFC is currently in stage 3, preparation and training, which takes approximately six months to implement. However, the procurement policy is still under careful review due to its complexity, but once complete will allow training of key stakeholders to get underway.
“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the FIFA representatives who provided us with detailed explanations and guidance throughout numerous insightful and productive sessions. A big thank you to our VAR team and Senior Management team, who asked many questions and demonstrated excellent commitment to this project,” said OFC VAR Project Manager Mihaly Fabian.
“I am confident that we are on the right track and will continue working hard to introduce the VAR system in Oceania and enhance the standard of refereeing across the entire region,” added Fabian.
Bringing VAR to Oceania reflects the commitment from OFC to improve the preparation and performance of match officials at OFC and international competitions, while enhancing the accuracy of refereeing decisions and ensuring we keep up with global standards.
Feature Photo Credit: OFC Media