Masked Fan Unplugs VAR Monitor in German Match
A masked fan caused a stir during a German second division match on Sunday by unplugging a video assistant referee (VAR) monitor just as the referee was set to review a penalty award.
Incident Overview
– The event unfolded at the end of the first half during Preussen Munster’s 2-1 home defeat against Hertha Berlin in Bundesliga 2.
– With VAR intervening, referee Felix Bickel headed to the pitchside monitor, only to find it blank.
– Preussen Munster confirmed in a statement, A masked spectator from the active fan section illegally entered the pitch and unplugged the technical equipment.
VAR Decision Process
– Unable to make a definitive call on-site, Bickel turned to VAR official Katrin Rafalski in Cologne.
– After reviewing the incident from afar, Rafalski determined it was indeed a foul, leading Bickel to award a penalty, which Hertha successfully converted.
Club Reaction and Future Precautions
Preussen Munster expressed regret over the incident, stating, We will do everything in our power to identify and bring the perpetrator(s) to justice. The club also mentioned, Immediate measures have been taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Initial investigations suggested this was a planned act, as a banner declaring Pull the plug on VAR was displayed in the home section shortly after the technical disruption.
Conclusion
The incident underscores ongoing tensions surrounding VAR in football, highlighting both fan frustrations and the need for enhanced security measures at matches. Preussen Munster’s commitment to resolve this matter reflects a larger league initiative to safeguard fair play while addressing fan concerns around VAR.