What if the referees said out loud to the viewers what they decide? The question arises more than ever. Called for by all players in football, the man in black sound project is making great strides. As RMC Sport explains, the FFF and the DTA (Technical Arbitration Department) are in favor of it, while Amazon Prime Video, which broadcasts eight L1 matches each day, is pushing for this practice to become regular. All that is missing is the validation of the IFAB (International Football Association Board), the guardian of the rules of the game.
On February 4, Amazon broadcast a summary of Marseille-Angers with a microphone placed on Mr. Stinat, the central referee. In rugby, it has become common to hear the game director explain his decisions. Same thing for American football fans who attended the Super Bowl a few days ago. The football community has been talking regarding it for quite some time, and this new technology will only be an evolution of the role of the referee, following video refereeing (VAR) introduced four years ago.
Real good idea or simple gimmick?
“It’s been in the pipeline for years, confirms Tony Chapron, former professional referee and now consultant since 2018. The LFP (Professional Football League) has understood that there is an interest in the show. I think all the players are in favor of it. Personally I am also because it will clarify a lot of things, while remaining measured. Everyone will see that the referees are already in the pedagogy and that they do not necessarily speak badly to the players, which many viewers believe. »
It remains to verify the real contribution of this technology. The use of microphones between referees on the same match is indeed common, and the recording of their conversations is available to the Disciplinary Committee if necessary. “In rugby, the rules are complex and the players do not always understand the decisions of the referee, continues Tony Chapron. The latter then takes the time to explain well in a stopped phase. In football, we are in the acceleration, and we will not tolerate that he discusses five minutes with the player. As with VAR, the idea is fabulous but it may not be convincing or even frustrating. Let’s test it, but don’t expect miracles. I’m afraid it’s still a gimmick. »
