Referee Scandals Forced TFF’s Hand: Foreign VAR Refs Now in Charge!
The Turkish Football Federation (TFF) has announced that foreign VAR referees will be temporarily assigned during the second half of the Süper Lig season. Following a critical meeting, TFF shared the decisions made.
The Turkish Football Federation (TFF) has announced that foreign VAR referees will be temporarily assigned during the second half of the Süper Lig season. Following a critical meeting, TFF shared the decisions made.
A New Era for VAR
In a statement, the TFF highlighted the recent debates surrounding VAR decisions and their negative impact on the football climate. The decision aims to address these concerns, protect the league’s brand value, and enhance the effective use of the VAR system. The introduction of foreign VAR referees is expected to be a temporary measure.
The TFF noted that this transition period would contribute to the development and competency of young Turkish referees. Additionally, they reiterated their commitment to achieving the long-term goal of managing Turkish football entirely with local referees. Structural changes in the refereeing system will include revisions to disciplinary regulations and other necessary adjustments to foster a positive football environment.
Full Statement from TFF
The TFF also announced broader organizational changes, including:
- Reorganization of the Central Referee Committee (MHK): The committee will be restructured to establish a corporate framework aligned with a privatization process.
- Operations in Süper Lig and 1. Lig: These will be managed under the guidance of the MHK President, in line with principles set by an Advisory Board that includes club representatives.
- Institutional Strengthening: Professional support from TFF specialists will be provided to reinforce operations in Süper Lig and 1. Lig.
- Transparency and Professionalization:
- Implementation of an automated system with clear and transparent criteria for referee appointments.
- Sharing performance evaluations with clubs and systematic appeal processes.
- Introduction of professional communication management.
- Management of Lower and Amateur Leagues: Other MHK members will oversee these leagues.
The TFF emphasized that the temporary use of foreign VAR referees is a step toward resolving the issues associated with VAR applications. They affirmed their dedication to supporting young referees’ development to manage Turkish football independently. Structural reforms aim to improve the football environment, with necessary changes to disciplinary and other regulations.
Lastly, the TFF stated that additional strategic changes to enhance Turkish football’s institutional growth and brand value will be implemented progressively.
Respectfully shared with the public.
