UTTER CHAOS
Ex-prem ref’s damning verdict following VAR’S ‘Black Monday’
MARK CLATTENBURG claims VAR has turned the World Cup into “utter chaos”.
The former Premier League referee insists officials are getting it completely wrong because of VAR and questioned whether FIFA has changed the ground rules at the World Cup.
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo was referred for a red card after an off-the-ball clash against Iran, who were also awarded a controversial penalty following a VAR intervention.
Clattenburg said: “VAR was having a good tournament – until Monday night, when it was utter chaos.
“If you look at the Ronaldo arm incident, I was totally baffled.
“Obviously, it wasn’t a sending off, but why was it even referred? It certainly wasn’t a clear and obvious error, which VAR is supposed to be used for.
“Then there’s the Iran penalty which was a shambles.
“It’s not handball, the ref had a clear view, and made the right decision. It shouldn’t have been reviewed, let alone turned over. I’m flabbergasted!
“That incident shouldn’t have gone to VAR based on the pre-tournament directives.
“Especially when you compare it to the two incidents in the England v Tunisia game (where Harry Kane was wrestled to the ground). Those were really bad decisions that should’ve obviously been overturned.
“The tolerance for ‘clear and obvious’ error has changed.”
Clattenburg added: “The big issue with VAR is that referees will subconsciously think they’ve made a mistake as soon as they are told in their ear to go to the review area.
“Therefore 99 per cent of the time they will overturn the decision – because, to send him there, it is supposed to be a clear and obvious error.
“The problem with penalties is that it’s very subjective, even with the technology. I’ve been in the studio with ex-players and managers this tournament and no one agrees.
“The technology is supposed to avoid massive scandals – but, today, it’s the cause of the scandal, which isn’t right.”
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