Spanish FA Releases VAR Audio Following Gerard Martin Red Card Reversal vs. Atlético Madrid
Referee Mateo Busquets Ferrer decided to overturn the red card he had shown to Barcelona player Gerard Martin, following a review using the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, after a challenge on Atlético Madrid forward Thiago Almada.
The reversal came after an on-field review of the incident, which the referee initially deemed a sending-off offense. It was subsequently downgraded to a yellow card, based on a recommendation from the VAR room, which considered the contact to be a natural part of play.
The incident, which occurred in the first minute of the second half, saw Martin challenge an opposing player, prompting the referee's initial decision. However, VAR official Melero Lopez called his colleague to review the footage on the pitchside monitor, stating that the Catalan team's defender played the ball naturally before the contact occurred. This ultimately led to the change in the referee's decision after viewing the incident from multiple angles, which confirmed Martin's prior contact with the ball.
The Spanish Football Federation published the audio recordings of the conversation between the refereeing team on its social media accounts. Melero Lopez was heard telling his colleague: “I recommend you review the incident to assess the possibility of overturning the red card you showed, and let me know when you are in front of the screen.”
The VAR official continued to explain his technical view of the incident, stating: “In my opinion, it’s a move where the Barcelona player plays the ball in a normal way, it’s a natural dynamic of the game, as he plays the ball and then natural contact occurs with the Atlético Madrid player.”
Referee Busquets Ferrer responded to this assessment after reviewing the television replay, saying: “Okay, the Barcelona player controls the ball and plays it, then steps on the opponent in a normal dynamic. I will cancel the red card and show a yellow.”
The publication of these recordings by the football authorities is part of efforts to enhance transparency regarding controversial refereeing decisions in Spain's La Liga competitions.
