Padang. The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) has decided to postpone the implementation of the Video Assistance Referee (VAR) in Liga 1 for the foreseeable future. The delay aims to provide ample time for all certified referees to familiarize themselves with the system.

PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir said on Wednesday that the country's top-tier football competition still requires up to 18 more referees to become acquainted with the VAR system.

"Our initial plan was to implement VAR in February, but we've decided to delay it by another month," Erick said during a visit to Haji Agus Salim Stadium in Padang, West Sumatra.

PSSI has conducted several trials of the VAR in actual matches, most recently at a Bogor stadium on February 17.

The VAR utilizes video footage to assist referees in reviewing crucial decisions, such as the legality of a scored goal or penalty, and identifying serious foul play that may warrant a direct red card. It also helps prevent referees from mistakenly identifying players deserving of yellow or red cards.

"While the VAR system is readily available, we still lack referees familiar with the system," Erick said.

He asserted that once the referees are fully prepared, VAR implementation will become mandatory in Liga 1 to ensure fair and honest competition.

Deputy Chairman Ratu Tisha said the video-assisting tool is likely to be implemented during the championship round of Liga 1 from May 4-26, pending certification by FIFA.