Napoli president backs Conte's tirade with a special statement

Antonio Conte’s outburst after the match against Internazionale has sparked a heated debate about the use of VAR in Serie A, highlighting broader frustrations with the technology and the protocols that govern its application.

Following a controversial penalty call, Conte, visibly angered, criticized the decision as unjust, expressing deeper concerns about how VAR is being managed. According to the Napoli coach, the inconsistency in its use is not only undermining the integrity of the game but also fostering an environment ripe for conspiracy theories and distrust among fans, players, and coaches alike. Conte’s post-match comments were scathing, suggesting that the current system is failing to provide the clarity and fairness it was designed to ensure.

Conte’s frustration stems from a belief that VAR should intervene in all cases of clear errors, without exception. He pointed out that when the technology selectively chooses when to get involved, it creates a perception of bias or manipulation. The incident in question, where a penalty was awarded to Internazionale, ignited Conte’s fury because he felt it was a blatant error that the VAR should have corrected. Instead, the decision stood, leaving Conte questioning the purpose of the technology if it cannot be relied upon to rectify obvious mistakes. His comments were not merely about this single match; they were a broader indictment of how VAR is implemented in Italy, which he feels lacks consistency and transparency.

Inter president Beppe Marotta was quick to respond, defending the referee’s decision and suggesting that Conte’s reaction was part of a broader agenda. Marotta stated that, from his perspective, the penalty was valid and that Conte’s complaints seemed strategic, aimed at putting pressure on officials and influencing future decisions. Marotta also highlighted the need for discussions about VAR protocols within the larger framework of Italian football governance, acknowledging that there might be room for improvement but insisting that the existing system works when used correctly. His comments hinted at a deeper conflict between the two clubs, as well as a philosophical divide over how the game should be officiated.

Aurelio De Laurentiis, known for his outspoken nature, entered the fray with a strongly worded statement, adding his voice to the growing criticism of VAR’s inconsistent use. In a pointed response, De Laurentiis disagreed with Marotta, calling his remarks "inappropriate" and aligning himself firmly with Conte’s viewpoint. "The majority of viewers did not consider it a penalty," De Laurentiis stated. He emphasized that Conte’s criticism was not only justified but echoed his own long-held beliefs about the flaws in the current VAR system. De Laurentiis argued that VAR is a valuable tool designed to eliminate refereeing mistakes, and its selective application only serves to undermine its purpose.

The Napoli president expanded on his critique, pointing out that the current approach to using VAR creates an environment of suspicion and doubt. "The development of football will be hindered if we continue like this," he warned. According to De Laurentiis, the solution lies in clear and consistent intervention from the VAR team. He highlighted the direct communication already existing between referees and the VAR room, questioning why referees are hesitant to receive guidance when technology provides a clearer view of on-field events. "It makes no sense to say that sometimes VAR can intervene and sometimes it cannot. If there is a refereeing error, the VAR team must call the referee to the screen."

De Laurentiis called for an overhaul of the VAR regulations, suggesting that new guidelines are urgently needed to avoid the inconsistent decisions that fuel doubt and controversy. He noted that one of the main issues lies in the reluctance of on-field referees to accept corrections from the VAR team, as it can be seen as undermining their authority and credibility. "We all know that referees often resist VAR interventions because they feel it diminishes their autonomy," he explained. "But when it comes to clear and obvious mistakes, the VAR must step in for the good of the game."

In De Laurentiis’s view, the reluctance to embrace VAR fully is preventing the sport from advancing. He argued that football is at a crossroads where the use of technology can either enhance the game’s fairness or become a source of endless debate and division. "We need a new set of VAR regulations that leave no room for interpretation," he declared. "Otherwise, the narrative of doubt will continue to grow, and the credibility of our refereeing will suffer."

The timing of De Laurentiis’s comments is significant, as discussions about the use of VAR have become a central issue in Italian football. High-profile mistakes and controversies have led to increasing calls for reform, not just from coaches and club officials but also from fans who are frustrated with the current system’s lack of transparency. The debate has also touched on broader issues about the role of technology in sports, with many arguing that while VAR has the potential to make football fairer, its inconsistent application is causing more harm than good.

Looking ahead, the pressure is mounting on Serie A officials to address these concerns and implement changes. De Laurentiis’s call for a comprehensive review of VAR protocols aligns with a growing chorus of voices demanding clearer guidelines and more consistent use of the technology. As the season progresses, the issue is likely to remain at the forefront of discussions, especially if further controversial decisions arise.

In closing his statement, De Laurentiis reiterated his support for Conte’s stance and emphasized that the current situation is unsustainable. "For the sake of the sport, we must act now," he concluded. "The technology is there to help us, but only if we use it properly. We owe it to the fans, the players, and the integrity of the game itself to make sure that VAR is applied fairly and consistently."