Over the past few weeks, a series of disputes have arisen following refereeing or VAR decisions during L1 matches. However, improvements are expected in the near future.
As reported by L’Équipe, Anthony Gautier, the technical director of refereeing, revealed on January 15 that FIFA has granted France the permission to trial sound systems for referees. This will be carried out in a specific manner, similar to the system used during the U20 World Cup in Argentina (May 20-June 11, 2023). In that tournament, a sound system was used that enabled referees to verbally explain their decisions to the teams and spectators after consulting with the VAR.
The preliminary trials are set to take place during the D1 Arkema playoffs in May.
Eric Borghini, the president of the federal referees commission, confirmed to the sports daily, “Yes, FIFA has given several countries, including France, the go-ahead to test this practice”. The microphones will only be activated during the most disputed actions, specifically when the referee is reviewing them. We are in support of a constant sound system. However, FIFA is taking a gradual approach towards this before extending it to other events. As for L1, this system could be introduced next season.
