Heated Derby: An Impossible Replay?
The derby between Atlético de Madrid and Real Madrid continues to generate controversy. After the match, the Unión de Peñas del Atlético de Madrid has expressed its dissatisfaction with the referee’s performance, even suggesting the possibility of requesting a replay of the match due to a controversial play.
However, the rules of UEFA and FIFA are clear on this. UEFA’s Disciplinary Code, in its article 9, states that decisions made by the referee on the field are final and cannot be reviewed by UEFA’s disciplinary bodies. Action could only be taken in cases of mistaken identity.
Furthermore, the VAR protocol, included in the IFAB’s Laws of the Game, prevents the invalidation of a match due to errors in the operation of the technology or erroneous decisions in which VAR has participated, since it is part of the refereeing body.
Despite the understandable discontent of the fans, it seems unlikely that the courts can force UEFA to replay a match in which the VAR review protocol was applied. The team, with its characteristic grit, must now focus on the next challenges and continue to demonstrate its worth in every match. Aúpa Atleti!
