In Doha, Qatar, the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) recently organized a special seminar for Video Assistant Referee (VAR) instructors, with representatives from Asia, Africa, and Oceania. The event was inaugurated by Hani Ballan, Deputy Chairman of the FIFA Referees Committee and Chairman of the Qatar Football Association Referees Committee. The seminar was overseen by prominent figures from FIFA’s Refereeing Department, including Michael Bailey, Mike van der Roest, Valentin Ivanov, and Ismail Al Hafi.
A total of 35 attendees participated in the seminar, with four representatives from the Qatar Football Association. The participants engaged in discussions and workshops aimed at enhancing their understanding and implementation of VAR technology in football matches. This initiative is part of FIFA’s ongoing efforts to improve the quality and accuracy of refereeing in the sport.
Doha has become a hub for FIFA seminars, having previously hosted events such as the FIFA seminar for referees selected to officiate at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. This particular seminar featured 41 referees from Asia, Africa, and Oceania, further highlighting the city’s importance in the world of football refereeing. The seminars provide valuable learning opportunities for referees and VAR instructors, helping them stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the sport.
The presence of FIFA officials and experts at the seminar underscores the organization’s commitment to promoting fair play and professionalism in football. By providing training and resources to VAR instructors, FIFA aims to ensure consistency and accuracy in refereeing decisions across different football competitions. This proactive approach is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the game and upholding its values.
The seminar in Doha served as a platform for knowledge-sharing and collaboration among VAR instructors from different regions. Through interactive sessions and practical exercises, participants had the opportunity to exchange ideas and best practices related to VAR technology. This collective learning experience is essential for fostering a cohesive and well-informed community of VAR instructors worldwide.
Overall, the FIFA seminar for VAR instructors in Doha was a productive and enriching experience for all participants. By bringing together representatives from diverse backgrounds, FIFA continues to promote a culture of inclusivity and cooperation in football refereeing. As the sport evolves and technology advances, initiatives like these are crucial for ensuring that referees and VAR instructors are equipped to handle the challenges of modern football effectively.
