Martin O’Neill claims VAR ‘debilitating’ for officials after Celtic fail with red card appeal

Guardian Sport

by Ewan Murray in Stuttgart

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Celtic manager Martin O’Neill has sharply criticized the use of VAR (Video Assistant Referee) technology in Scottish football following the controversial dismissal of Auston Trusty during Sunday’s match against Hibernian. Trusty was sent off after what O’Neill described as an “absurd” decision, which Celtic unsuccessfully appealed. The red card will result in Trusty missing three crucial games, including a key Old Firm clash with Rangers at Ibrox. O’Neill argued that VAR decisions are “debilitating” for on-field referees and claimed that over time, the reliance on VAR may render traditional referees obsolete. The incident occurred during Celtic’s 1-0 loss to Hibernian, which further complicated an already challenging season for the Glasgow giants. Trusty’s absence is particularly significant as he is a key defender in a team struggling defensively this campaign. His suspension will leave a gaping hole in Celtic’s lineup, especially with important fixtures ahead, including matches against Rangers and other top-tier opponents. O’Neill’s comments reflect a growing frustration among managers and players regarding VAR’s impact on decision-making and game flow. The controversy highlights the ongoing debate surrounding VAR’s implementation in football. While supporters argue that it enhances fairness by correcting clear mistakes, critics like O’Neill believe it undermines the authority of referees and creates unnecessary delays. The case of Trusty’s red card serves as a prime example of how VAR can lead to contentious decisions that significantly affect team performance and league standings. Ultimately, this issue matters to sports fans because it touches on the integrity of the game and the balance between human judgment and technology. As VAR continues to evolve, questions about its effectiveness and impact on refereeing remain central to discussions among football enthusiasts, players, and officials alike.

Verticals

sports

Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/25/2026