London (AFP)
Former French striker Thierry Henry says the time it takes to reach decisions using the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology is killing the “fun” of football.
Henry, who won the World Cup with France in 1998, said he had no problem with technology in principle but was disappointed with the slow pace of reviews compared to other sports.
Henry, 45, the best scorer in Arsenal’s history, believes that the VAR technology is causing new controversies and does not reduce the controversy over refereeing decisions.
“In football we are still behind, and we have a lot to learn,” he said at the Leaders Conference in London.
“What I can see in American football, in rugby, in cricket or another sport like tennis as well, the decisions are instant,” he added.
Henry, Belgium’s assistant coach at the moment, added: “What bothers me with VAR, it’s not fast enough. Then it’s still a matter of someone’s decision, because it’s not the VAR that makes the decision, the VAR is there. Just to draw attention in relation to a particular case.”
He explained that the uncertainty surrounding the video-assisted technology prevents immediate celebrations, noting in this regard that “what we want to see is the continuation of the game.”
“Another thing that is very difficult for me is that I used to score goals as a player. Sometimes now you don’t even know if you need to celebrate or not.”
Henry: “The mouse” kills the fun of football
