There is growing frustration over the decisions of the video assistant referee (VAR) in football. Since Manchester City’s penalty kick in the round of 16 second leg of the Champions League against RB Leipzig, even the most experienced referee experts have been confused by handball rules and interpretations. This has led to frustrated players, uncertain referees, and annoyed fans.
In a recent episode of “Stammplatz,” a daily football podcast from BILD, former FIFA referee Thorsten Kinhöfer speaks out about the need for a real revolution in the rules. He believes that the penalty for handball is too severe and suggests an alternative approach. Specifically, if the ball is accidentally kicked onto a player’s arm in the penalty area, the opposing team should receive a free kick from 20-25 meters away from the goal rather than a penalty kick. While there may still be debates, it is not equivalent to conceding a goal.
In the latest “Stammplatz” episode, Kinhöfer discusses several other topics, including why referees are making fewer decisions, why former players could benefit the video cellar, and when the VAR should intervene. As a daily football podcast, “Stammplatz” offers first-hand information and insights from BILD football reporters who visit every Bundesliga club on a regular basis. It is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms.
