Another sharp step has been taken on the path toward ensuring fairness and transparency in Uzbek football. At an emergency meeting of the PFL Executive Committee, systemic issues in refereeing and questionable decisions were discussed in detail. Zamin.uz presents the latest details related to the “scale of justice” in the game of millions.
VAR — a tool of justice or a machine of interests?
The league’s CEO Diyor Imomkhodjaev addressed unclear situations surrounding refereeing activity and the VAR system during the meeting. It was noted that, despite the League providing referees with the most modern technical equipment, including mobile television stations, decisions on the field still continue to cause many objections. According to Imomkhodjaev, in some cases VAR, instead of serving justice, seems to have turned into a tool that protects someone’s interests.
The controversial situation in Kokand and “secret” audio recordings
The situation in the 6th round Super League match between “Kokand-1912” and “Nasaf” filled the League’s patience to the limit. After the controversial incident in the match, the League requested VAR audio recordings from the Uzbekistan Referees Center. However, the Center’s delays under various excuses further increased suspicions. Notably, the expert group also confirmed that in that situation the VAR referee made a mistake by calling the main referee.
Two referees suspended until the end of the season
Members of the Executive Committee decided on strict measures to restore the trust of the football community and to serve as an example for other referees. According to the decision:
- Main referee Rustam Lutfullin and VAR referee Ibrokhim Ismoilov have been fully suspended from Super League, Pro League, and Uzbekistan Cup matches until the end of the season.
- Additionally, an appeal has been sent to the President of the UFA to review their compliance with international category status.
Systemic reforms are a requirement of the time
During the meeting, the insufficient effectiveness of the reforms led by specialist Guy Kiała was also criticized. It is now expected that a new regulation will be developed to increase transparency in the VAR center and refereeing activities. The League once again emphasized the need to wisely use the conditions created by the President and jointly fight against shortcomings in football.
Mistakes in football are natural, but their intentional or systematic repetition damages the trust of millions of fans.
Dear football fans, what do you think about the latest suspension of referees? Has the VAR system truly brought justice to Uzbek football?
