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Club Africain demands investigation into VAR controversies and refereeing system
Club Africain has released an official statement expressing serious concerns over what it describes as repeated refereeing errors, particularly during the recent derby match in the national championship. The Tunisian club, known as Bab Jedid, has called for a comprehensive investigation into the conduct of VAR officials and the broader refereeing system, alleging that these incidents have compromised fair play and tarnished the club’s reputation.
Allegations of systematic errors
The statement outlines a pattern of questionable decisions, culminating in the 14th round of the championship. Club Africain argues that these errors are not isolated incidents but part of a sustained campaign targeting the club since the start of the season. It also refers to an ambiguous email sent to the club, which allegedly attempted to involve them in a “staged scenario” to justify the appointment of foreign referees. The club claims that after rejecting this email, it became the target of inflammatory media campaigns aimed at dividing its supporters.
Controversy over foreign referees
A key point in the statement is the appointment of foreign referees to oversee the VAR system, a move that Club Africain says was imposed without its consent and despite the Federation’s financial difficulties. The club sees this as evidence of a deliberate attempt to manipulate match outcomes, with the VAR system referred to as “the dark room” being used to control results rather than letting players determine the outcome on the field.
Accusations of manipulation
The club has demanded the removal of certain individuals, including a VAR technician described as the “sole director,” who is accused of manipulating camera angles and footage over several years without oversight. Club Africain also criticized what it calls compliant media outlets, accusing them of justifying these errors to serve commercial interests.
Demands for transparency and accountability
In its statement, Club Africain has issued several demands to the Federation’s executive committee. These include access to all VAR recordings from past and future matches, an investigation into the VAR system’s operation, the removal of biased technicians, and the implementation of transparency measures similar to those in major international leagues. The club also calls for public referee ratings after each match and accountability from the Federation and League for their alleged failures in oversight. Club Africain has urged the relevant authorities to sanction individuals found guilty of manipulation or actions that disrupt public order.
The club’s demands reflect its growing frustration with what it perceives as an erosion of fairness in Tunisian football, calling for immediate reforms to restore integrity to the sport.