Pongracic Handball Fiorentina Inter VAR Decision Explained
Incident Overview
During the final match of the 30th round of Serie A at the Franchi stadium, Pongracic was involved in a handball incident in the Fiorentina vs Inter game.
VAR and Referee Dialogue
The VAR team, consisting of Maresca and Massa, reviewed the incident with referee Colombo. The VAR stated:
“In my view, it’s not a penalty. It’s an unexpected ball, it’s bouncing, the dynamics told me it wasn’t a penalty.”The referee responded with “No, no, no, it bounces and he’s on top of it. No, no, no.” and later “Okay, thanks.”
Tonolini's Analysis
Tonolini, a member of the National Referees’ Committee (CAN), commented on the decision:
“An absolutely correct decision; a sound assessment by Colombo on the pitch, who was in an excellent position and judged the incident appropriately. The ball bounced in front of Pongracic, who tried to play it, and the contact with his arm occurred in a natural and consistent manner with the movement. It was a non-penalty situation; Colombo’s decision was correct and was subsequently upheld by the VAR room. In terms of position and movement, the arm is not punishable. The fact that there is an opponent there is irrelevant. Assessments of whether handball is punishable are made independently of the outcome of the subsequent play. The fact that there was an opponent behind him changes nothing.”
Key Facts
- Match: Fiorentina vs Inter
- Referee: Colombo
- VAR officials: Maresca, Massa
- Round: 30th of Serie A
- Date: March 24, 2026
- Venue: Franchi stadium
