Rangers Star Raskin: Scottish Football Must Embrace Tech Investment to Compete Globally

2025-05-18
Rangers Star Raskin: Scottish Football Must Embrace Tech Investment to Compete Globally
Daily Mail

Rangers midfielder Nicolas Raskin has issued a stark warning to Scottish football authorities: invest in modern Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, or risk the Scottish Premiership falling further behind Europe's elite leagues. The Belgian international's comments come amidst ongoing frustration and controversy surrounding the implementation of VAR in Scotland, with numerous incidents drawing criticism from players, managers, and fans alike.

“I think it’s important for Scottish football to invest in better VAR technology,” Raskin stated plainly. “If we want to be taken seriously as a top-level competition, we need to have the same standards as other leagues across Europe. The technology needs to be better, the people operating it need to be better trained, and the whole process needs to be more transparent.”

The current VAR system in Scotland has been plagued by delays, inconsistencies, and a perceived lack of clarity in decision-making. These issues have not only impacted match results but have also eroded public trust in the integrity of the game. Raskin’s call echoes the sentiments of many within the Scottish football community who believe that significant improvements are urgently needed.

The Cost of Inaction: A Growing Gap

Raskin’s concerns are not unfounded. Leagues in England, Spain, Germany, and Italy have all invested heavily in their VAR infrastructure, employing sophisticated technology and highly-trained officials. The result is a more efficient and consistent application of the rules, which enhances the overall quality of the game. By failing to keep pace, the Scottish Premiership risks widening the gap between itself and these more established leagues, making it harder to attract top talent and retain existing stars.

“It’s not just about the technology itself,” Raskin added. “It’s about the training and the consistency. You need to have people who are well-trained and who understand the rules inside and out. And you need to have a process that is clear and transparent, so everyone knows what to expect.”

Beyond VAR: A Holistic Approach

While Raskin’s focus is on VAR, his comments highlight a broader need for investment in all aspects of Scottish football infrastructure. This includes improving training facilities, youth development programs, and overall governance structures. A modern, well-equipped league is essential for attracting investment, fostering talent, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the game.

The future of Scottish football hinges on the willingness of its leaders to embrace change and invest in the resources needed to compete on the global stage. Nicolas Raskin’s message is clear: the time for action is now. Ignoring this call will only serve to further diminish the prestige and competitiveness of the Scottish Premiership.

The debate surrounding VAR in Scotland continues to rage, but Raskin’s perspective offers a valuable insight into the challenges facing Scottish football and the importance of embracing technological advancements to ensure its future success.

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