Report – Why Real Madrid cannot get their hands on VAR audio from Espanyol clash | OneFootball

Real Madrid have made a formal request to access the VAR audios from the recent Espanyol match, involving the main referee Muniz Ruiz and the VAR referee Iglesias Villanueva.

The request specifically pertains to a key moment in the game: Carlos Romero’s tackle on Kylian Mbappe. Both referees deemed the challenge deserving of only a yellow card, which has sparked controversy.

Following this decision, both referees were sanctioned by the Spanish Football Federation (CTA) and will not officiate for a few upcoming matches.

It is unlikely that will happen

However, Real Madrid’s request to hear the VAR audios faces a significant hurdle, reports Mundo Deportivo.

According to FIFA and the IFAB (International Football Association Board) guidelines, the CTA is not permitted to release such audios.

A 2023 circular issued by IFAB clearly states that conversations between referees and the video assistant referee cannot be broadcast or made public.

Real Madrid will not receive the requested VAR audio. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

While these recordings can be used for educational and informational purposes, they cannot be shared with clubs or the public on demand.

This restriction has left Real Madrid seeking alternative methods to obtain the audio, even considering the possibility of pursuing the matter through civil or criminal legal channels.

Despite this, the CTA is bound by the rules set out by FIFA and IFAB, making it impossible for them to fulfil the club’s request.

But there is a way

However, there is a procedure for clubs to view match footage. If Real Madrid wish to view the match in question, they can request it through the CTA.

Typically, the CTA allows clubs to review matches at the Ciudad del Fútbol in Las Rozas, a service provided to clubs for educational and analysis purposes, as outlined by IFAB.

While this does not provide access to the VAR audios, it offers an opportunity to review the match in detail.

In conclusion, Real Madrid’s request for the VAR audios from the Espanyol game has been denied due to FIFA’s and IFAB’s regulations.

The club will need to explore other options if it wishes to further address the controversial decision surrounding the tackle on Mbappe.