Credit: La Liga
La Liga is gearing up to introduce the VAR technology in its upcoming 2025-26 season, claimed by the media reports. Major reforms are expected to be implemented and the most notable one is the Spanish Referees Committee’s revolutionary VAR system, which is known for increasing transparency in the game. The demand for VAR started gaining traction after Real Madrid’s confrontation with La Liga referees. In February 2025, Madrid’s midfielder Jude Bellingham was handed a two-match suspension for disrespect to referee Jose Luis Munuera, who sent him off at Osasuna. Following this game, an ambience of animosity developed between Real Madrid and the RFEF (Spanish Football Federation) match officials.
In an open letter published in February, Madrid also asserted that Spanish refereeing was rigged and completely discredited. In April 2025, when Madrid and Barcelona were to face each other in Copa de Rey final in Sevilla, referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea broke down while divulging the pressure he and his colleagues suffered from Real Madrid TV days before that game. Real Madrid’s official media attack led the referees union to file lawsuits against the distinguished Spanish club.
Following the infamous drama, La Liga has now decided to introduce the VAR system. As per Cope Media, the technology will provide each manager 2 VAR challenge opportunities per contest. If the challenge leads to overturning an incorrect verdict, the coach'll retain the right to make another appeal, however, in case the referee’s call is upheld, no additional challenges will be given.
La Liga 2025/26 to kick off from August 15
La Liga 2025/26 will begin from August 15, 2025 and the final of the tournament will be played on May 24, 2026. Barcelona, who won their 28th title in the previous installment of the tournament, will be defending their title. Barca gained 88 points through 28 victories.
Real Madrid concluded their journey as runners-up with 84 points earned through 26 wins. Prior to the upcoming season, Madrid has reserved the services of Dean Huijsen, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Alvaro Carreras to solidify their squad.
