Serie A refereeing data shows increased playing time and fewer fouls

Data from the first five matchdays of the Serie A season indicates a shift in refereeing trends, characterized by fewer fouls and an increase in effective playing time. According to figures presented by the AIA, fouls per match have decreased by 12.54% compared to the previous season, averaging 22.74 per game.

This change has resulted in the average effective playing time rising to 59 minutes and 24 seconds, an increase of over five minutes compared to previous years. Disciplinary actions have also seen a decline, with fewer yellow cards, red cards, and penalties awarded. Specifically, penalties have dropped to an average of 0.10 per match.

Daniele Orsato, the head of the refereeing designators for CAN A and B, stated that the goal is to allow more physical contact and ensure VAR only intervenes for clear and obvious errors. He clarified that there is no specific ‘Orsato Protocol,’ but rather an effort to align with the needs of players and teams to promote a more fluid game.