Football coaches in Australia will be making dramatic hand signals and presenting their own cards during knockout matches this weekend as part of a global trial for FIFA's innovative video review system.
How the Football Video Support System Works
The Football Video Support (FVS) system provides a lightweight alternative to the full Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, specifically designed for leagues lacking the financial resources for comprehensive VAR implementation. Coaches participating in the Australian Championship will receive two challenge cards each during normal time, with an additional card provided if matches progress to extra-time.
Coaches can trigger reviews by twirling their finger in the air, physically handing a card to the fourth official, or providing verbal notification. The referee will then examine available video footage on a pitch-side monitor to review key decisions including goals, penalty calls, and card issuance.
Addressing Potential Gamesmanship
Jon Moss, Football Australia's head of referees, confirmed officials are prepared for potential tactical misuse of the challenge system. "We deal with that the same way as we deal with time wasting and time consumption," Moss stated. "We've made it clear to the clubs that we're not expecting them to do this [use the cards for advantage] and if they do do it, we won't be forthcoming in accepting challenges."
Moss provided a specific example: if a potential penalty isn't called, coaches cannot halt an ensuing counterattack using their challenge card. The review would only occur when the subsequent play naturally breaks down. However, he acknowledged that certain situations might test the system's boundaries, particularly during rapid transitions common in Championship-level football.
Global Testing and Future Implementation
The FVS system has undergone previous testing at junior tournaments and lower leagues in Malta, Spain, and Italy. Should the Australian implementation prove successful, the technology could be introduced for the A-League Women finals later this season.
Moss emphasized that FIFA remains committed to VAR, clarifying that FVS serves as a complementary solution rather than a replacement for the controversial video review system. The system offers a cost-effective option for competitions that already have video coverage but lack stadium infrastructure or dedicated officials for full VAR implementation.
Based on previous trials, Moss expects minimal match disruption, with an average of only 1.7 cards used per match. "I'd rather have a little bit of added time if we got to the right outcome," he commented, highlighting the balance between technology use and achieving correct decisions.
The system includes contingency plans for technical failures - should the technology malfunction, matches will continue without FVS support, with head coaches and captains being immediately informed.
The Australian Championships quarter-finals commence on Friday with the clash between Wests Apia and Marconi at Leichhardt Oval, marking the beginning of this significant trial in football technology evolution.
