"The video will be in Ligue 1 next season," announced Guingamp President Bertrand Desplat on Thursday after the general meeting of the Professional Football League (LFP), which approved, according to several club presidents, the incorporation of video refereeing for the next season.
"If everything goes normally, it should start from the beginning of the season," said President of the French Federation (FFF), Noel Le Graet. "I think it's a good initiative, all club presidents want it, so do the referees," he added.
"I think we have to do as in most developed countries and follow this trend. At least in some actions, the video is necessary," said Lyon President Jean-Michel Aulas.
Video assistance to refereeing (VAR) has been used this season in the Italian and German leagues. It will also be used next season in La Liga of Spain, all within the tests promoted by IFAB (International Board), the body responsible for the rules of this sport.
Its use has been clearly defined by IFAB. VAR can only be used in four situations in the game: after a goal scored, in a possible penalty play, for a direct expulsion, or to correct the identity of a sanctioned player.
IFAB must make a final decision on its authorization or discard in March 2018. FIFA President Gianni Infantino wants to use VAR at the 2018 Russia World Cup (June 14 - July 15).
Also at the French football assembly, it was decided that two former footballers, Didier Drogba and Youri Djorkaeff, will be the new ambassadors of Ligue 1, to enhance its international impact.
On the other hand, the CEO of the French Professional Football League (LFP), Didier Quillot, announced that the Trophy of Champions (French Super Cup) will be played in Asia in 2018. AFP