Overview
- Speaking on ARD’s Caren Miosga, Chancellor Friedrich Merz said he would have no objection to abolishing VAR and trusting on‑field referees.
- He emphasized he has no final position, noting VAR can correct mistakes but cautioning that a drive for total perfection has crossed a line.
- He argued that with four match officials at each game, decisions should be made on the field without video assistance.
- Introduced in 2017 in the Bundesliga and 2020 in the 2. Bundesliga, VAR has reduced clear errors but remains criticized for delays, uncertain celebrations and perceived loss of referee autonomy.
- Merz’s comments, notable given his long association with Borussia Dortmund, have renewed public focus on the long‑running VAR debate.