German football fans are preparing protests. The action will target VAR this weekend. Fan groups from clubs across Germany have joined. A joint statement was released on Thursday.
The technology was described as harmful. The groups called for VAR to be scrapped.
“VAR is robbing us of the joy of football,” they said.
Emotion has become a key issue
The groups said football had lost spontaneity. Goals can now be followed by long checks. Celebrations can be left in doubt. The fans said that had changed the game. They want that feeling restored.
The demand has been made across German football.
A history of fan protests
German supporters have protested before. Their campaigns have often caused disruption. Match schedules have been targeted. Investment plans have also faced resistance.
In 2023-24, tennis balls were thrown onto pitches. Chocolate coins were also used in protests. Matches were delayed as a result. Players criticised the disruption.
Referees even warned of possible cancellations.
VAR will not be used yet
The timing of the latest protest is notable. VAR will not be used in the first round. It is normally introduced later in the competition. This season, it will begin from the second round. Technical issues have been cited for the change.
The protests will therefore be symbolic. They will still put the issue in focus.
The debate is far from over
The German game remains divided over VAR. Supporters see it as a tool for fairness. Critics say it can weaken the match-day experience. The coming cup matches will bring that debate back.
Stuttgart and Eintracht Frankfurt begin on Friday. Bayern Munich will enter on September 2. For the fans, the message is clear. They want football without video reviews.
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