LFP/refereeing: test of public explanations of VAR-related decisions during PSG - Toulouse on 03/04/2026

The Ligue de Football Professionnel will test public announcements by referees to explain decisions taken when consulting VAR during Paris Saint-Germain - Toulouse FC, as part of Matchday 28 of the 2025-26 Ligue 1 McDonald’s season on 03/04 (kick-off at 20:45 CET), the LFP announced on 02/04/2026.

The central referee, Éric Wattellier, will be equipped with a microphone "whose activation will be remotely controlled by the video assistant referee". This protocol "will allow certain announcements by the referee to be broadcast live, simultaneously to spectators in the stadium and viewers on Ligue 1+, via transmission to the stadium control room and the OB van".

An initial activation of the experiment will take place during the pre-match coin toss, before potential use during the match, only in situations requiring a VAR review.

"This initiative is part of the LFP’s objective to improve transparency and understanding of refereeing decisions. Communicating how match officials make their decisions aims to make the measures taken more understandable for spectators in the stadium and TV…