Why the calibrated line is still there

class=”sc-3778e872-0 cKDKQr”>

Offside or not? However, these discussions should no longer exist in the new season in the Super League. With a four-year delay, the calibrated offside line is now also being introduced in Switzerland. The technique will then decide which player is closer to the goal when the ball is released. It will be used for the first time in the cup final on June 4 between Lugano and YB.

In 2019, when the VAR was introduced in Switzerland, the calibrated line was not used: for technical and financial reasons. Many argued for the exemption at the time. “I’m not in favor of millimeter decisions on the screen,” said Hellmut Krug, VAR project manager at the time. And a few months later, refereeing boss Daniel Wermelinger doubled down when he told Tamedia, “It’s a blessing we don’t have that.”

Those responsible have since changed their minds. On the one hand, it is the desire of all SFL clubs to introduce the offside line, on the other hand, it is technical development and the passage of time that have led to a different opinion, Wermelinger tells Blick. “Internationally, the trend is very clear: the offside line is a must.” In other words: you can’t keep cooking your own soup.

The additional costs, one of the reasons why it was not introduced at the time, are no longer an argument. The competition covers the nearly six-figure amount for the additional Hawk-Eye tool and for the initial outlay. It is almost negligible compared to the general costs of the VAR of up to 1.5 million Swiss francs per season.

Restocking costs millions

The increase of the Super League to twelve teams and the introduction of the Scots mode have much more to do with it. The 48 extra matches increase the costs for all referees including VAR from CHF 2.75 million to CHF 3.2 million. But these are passed on to the clubs.

In the end, they were the ones who demanded the calibrated line. This should bring more justice and ensure that discussions about goals from possible offside positions are restricted in fan forums and on social media channels. “Because there is no room for interpretation, the discussion of ‘obviously and blatantly wrong decisions’ in relation to offside becomes obsolete,” said Wermelinger. However, even the calibrated line cannot prevent one or the other controversial situation.

Source : Blick