Enhancing Refereeing Precision and Decision-Making in Indian Football with AVRS Implementation
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is considering the implementation of the ‘Additional Video Review System’ (AVRS) and has officially communicated with the International Football Association Board (IFAB) to explore the possibility of India participating in the AVRS trial.
The President of AIFF has recommended extending the existing technical infrastructure to facilitate an ‘on-demand’ video review request from referees. This would involve utilizing a multi-angle, multi-camera broadcast feed to assist match officials in decision-making.
Mr. Chaubey, the President of AIFF, emphasized the primary goal of reducing the margin of error by providing match officials with technology assistance. Although the eventual aim is to implement the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system, the initial focus is on AVRS as a pragmatic option for India. AVRS would allow the country to study the impact of the technology, train match officials in the new concept, and assess its adaptation by players, coaches, and clubs.
Currently, the widespread adoption of VAR faces limitations due to financial and infrastructure requirements outlined in FIFA’s Implementation Assistance and Approval Programme (IAAP). Approximately 30 percent of the 211 football-playing nations, predominantly in Europe and South America, have VAR subscriptions for either full domestic seasons or selective stages.
In recognizing these challenges, the President has proposed that the AIFF Referee Department conduct a study to seek FIFA’s suggestions and approval for the implementation of AVRS. This strategic approach aims to gradually introduce video review technology, ensuring its effective integration into Indian football while taking into account the unique challenges faced by the nation.
