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Masked Fan Unplugs VAR Monitor at German Match as Remote Review Awards Penalty

The remote VAR hub kept the review going despite the sabotage, with the host club opening an investigation that includes immediate security steps.

Overview

  • Referee Felix Bickel reached a blank pitchside screen in first-half stoppage time after a masked spectator unplugged the VAR monitor during Preussen Münster vs. Hertha Berlin.
  • A banner in the home end reading "Pull the plug on VAR" indicated a coordinated protest, according to the club's initial findings.
  • With the local monitor disabled, VAR official Katrin Rafalski in Cologne completed the review and instructed a penalty that Fabian Reese converted.
  • Hertha won 2-1 after Marten Winkler’s 93rd‑minute goal, which followed Jannis Heuer’s early second‑half equalizer for the hosts.
  • Preussen Münster confirmed an investigation with immediate countermeasures and a pledge to identify those responsible; TV footage showed a masked individual returning to the stands, the DFB was reported to be preparing a review, and captain Jorrit Hendrix voiced approval of the fans’ action.