Solbakken blasts VAR after World Cup exit: 'A declaration of bankruptcy'

Norway's coach Ståle Solbakken unleashed a scathing critique of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system just one day after his team's World Cup qualification hopes were dashed. Solbakken described the technology as a "declaration of bankruptcy" for the sport, expressing deep frustration with its implementation and impact on matches.

The Norwegian team's exit from the World Cup qualifiers marked a significant disappointment, and Solbakken's post-match comments focused heavily on the perceived failings of VAR. While the specifics of the VAR decisions that contributed to Norway's elimination were not detailed in the provided text, Solbakken's strong language indicates a belief that the system has fundamentally undermined the integrity or enjoyment of football.

His tirade suggests a broader dissatisfaction with how VAR is being used, potentially pointing to inconsistencies, controversial calls, or a perceived over-reliance on technology that detracts from the natural flow and human element of the game. The term "declaration of bankruptcy" implies a loss of faith in the system's ability to serve its intended purpose, perhaps suggesting it has failed to improve officiating or has created more problems than it has solved.

“

A declaration of bankruptcy.