Bundesliga Considers 5-Centimeter VAR Offside Tolerance Similar to Premier League

The Bundesliga is currently debating a proposal to adopt a 5-centimeter tolerance zone for offside decisions using VAR, mirroring the approach recently introduced in the Premier League. German refereeing expert Professor Dirk-Carsten Günther, writing for the Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger, supports the change, arguing it could increase the number of valid goals and make matches more exciting. However, Knut Kircher, head of Bundesliga referees, has expressed cautious support. Kircher noted that while a 5-centimeter margin seems reasonable, it merely shifts the threshold slightly and raises practical questions — for example, determining how a 5.5-centimeter offside would be treated. He emphasized that current VAR technology provides precise measurements intended to avoid ambiguity, unlike a leniency zone.

For the Bundesliga to implement this tolerance zone officially, approval from FIFA is required along with consensus among the clubs. The discussion highlights the balance between technological accuracy and the desire to allow more fluid goal scoring opportunities. The proposal remains under active consideration with no final decision yet announced.