La Liga President Hints At VAR Changes from Next Season

Sportsdunia Desk

Published - Apr 29, 2026, 12:18 PM

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Summary

La Liga president Javier Tebas recently shared his views about incoming changes for VAR starting next season.
Clubs like Barcelona have received the hard end of the stick due to VAR in recent weeks and have dropped points in the ongoing title race against Real Madrid.

The Spanish top division has seen many controversial decisions from the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) this term, and La Liga president Javier Tebas has indicated that significant VAR reforms could be introduced starting next season. He acknowledged that ongoing issues persist with the current VAR system and has called for improvements to restore confidence in officiating.

The recent comments have spawned growing criticism of the failure of the VAR system across Spanish football this term. Speaking about the La Liga VAR changes, Tebas admitted:

“Well, many things need to change in VAR. I think it’s an issue that needs to be reconsidered. We have to remember that the world of VAR depends on IFAB rules, on FIFA rules. I’m one of those who are advocating, and I’ve told this to the referees’ technical committee, that we need to move towards a more advanced Video Support model, like the one that exists in women’s football and in the RFEF first division, perhaps improved for professional football.”

The VAR system, introduced to reduce refereeing errors, has faced backlash from clubs, players, and fans over recent weeks. Inconsistencies over similar incidents and a lack of transparency for clubs and fans from officials are central to the issue. The high intensity of scrutiny and constant questions on whether VAR has improved fairness or added more confusion have captured the attention.

Javier Tebas Calls For Refined Decision Making

The La Liga president has emphasized that while VAR itself is not the problem, the application needs refinement from match officials. Tebas suggested that adjustments could include improved communication, clearer protocols, and potentially changes in how decisions are reviewed during matches. He believes the ultimate goal is to make the system more reliable and easier for fans to understand.

The La Liga president also highlighted the importance of aligning with broader football authorities. Any changes would likely require coordination with FIFA and the International Football Association Board, the two bodies responsible for the laws of the game.

In recent seasons, VAR controversies have frequently dominated headlines in Spanish football and hurt clubs like Spanish giants Barcelona. While delays have raised concerns about decisions, subjective interpretations, and a perceived lack of consistency on a match-to-match basis.