Barcelona, May 11, 2025 – An earthquake shook European football following the elimination of FC Barcelona to Inter Milan in the last 16 of the Champions League. The controversy exploded when it was revealed that the main referee of the match had been permanently banned by the UEFA, accused of irregularities related to an alleged “blackout” of the VAR system in key moments of the match. The Italian media threw the flames by suggesting that an “invisible hand” manipulated the development of the game, generating a wave of speculation.
The match, which ended with a 2-1 defeat to Barcelona, was marked by controversial refereeing decisions, including a lost penalty and a possible ignored red card. The VAR system, which should review these plays, would have suffered an inexplicable technical interruption. Internal leaks, whose source remains anonymous, claim that the system was deliberately “disabled” at critical times, depriving Barcelona of fair decisions that could have changed the course of the match.
Images that circulate on social networks show referees in the VAR room of VAR apparently confused, while not yet verified audio recordings, suggest heated discussions about the system functionality. Anonymous sources within the arbitration community suggested external pressure, although no concrete evidence has been presented. The Italian media, in turn, pointed out possible extra -sport interests, feeding conspiracy theories that indignant Barça fans.
UEFA responded with an official statement, confirming the referee’s sanction and promising a complete investigation. However, the lack of transparency attracted criticism from Barcelona, whose directors require clear answers. “It is unacceptable that a match of this magnitude is marked by such serious mistakes,” said a club spokesman.
As the investigation advances, the scandal continues to grow. Fans are demanding justice, and the term “invisible hand” has become a trend topic on social networks. Was it a technical error or something more sinister? For now, VAR’s blackout has not only eliminated Barcelona from the Champions League, but also in question the integrity of European football.
