Home / Sports / VAR Monitor Unplugged by Fan in German Soccer Match
VAR Monitor Unplugged by Fan in German Soccer Match
9 Mar
Summary
- A masked fan unplugged a VAR monitor during a German second division match.
- The incident occurred at the end of the first half of Preussen Munster vs. Hertha Berlin.
- A banner reading "Pull the plug on VAR" was displayed after the malfunction.
During a recent Bundesliga 2 match between Preussen Munster and Hertha Berlin, a masked spectator intentionally disrupted the game. This individual entered the pitch and unplugged the video assistant referee (VAR) monitor just as the referee, Felix Bickel, was preparing to review a penalty award.
Preussen Munster confirmed the deliberate act of sabotage, stating the fan illegally entered the pitch and disconnected the technical equipment. As Bickel could not access the VAR feed, the final decision rested with the VAR official in Cologne. This official ruled it a foul, leading to a penalty which Hertha Berlin converted, contributing to their 2-1 victory.
The club issued a statement condemning the incident and vowing to identify those responsible and bring them to justice. They also indicated immediate measures would be implemented to prevent similar events. Reports suggest this was a planned protest, as a banner with the message "Pull the plug on VAR" was visible in the home fan section shortly after the technical malfunction.
