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A major video assistant referee (VAR) innovation could be on its way to Spanish football, with La Liga reportedly preparing to allow head coaches to challenge referee decisions during matches.
According to Spanish radio outlet COPE, league officials are finalizing a rule change that would grant managers the right to request up to two VAR reviews per match.
The system would function similarly to the "coach’s challenge" used in basketball. Coaches could ask the on-field referee to review a decision using the pitch-side monitor.
Under the proposed model, technical staff would be allowed to request reviews only while the match is in progress and for specific types of decisions. If the referee changes the call after viewing the footage, the team would retain its challenge. However, if the original decision stands, the challenge would be counted as used.
The change, if implemented, would mark the first time in top-flight European football that teams could directly influence when referees consult VAR. The rule is expected to be trialed during the upcoming season and could set a precedent for other leagues if successful.
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