2 min read
Football Insider

The Impact of VAR: How it Could Have Altered Football History for England & Diego Maradona

In a revealing conversation with GOAL, Peter Shilton delves into how the introduction of VAR would have reshaped the narrative of football's iconic moments. Specifically, he highlights how the absence of VAR in 1986 could have prevented the infamous 'Hand of God' incident, individual wonder goal, and even altered the outcome of the World Cup for Diego Maradona. Let's explore how technology might have rewritten the history books for these football legends.

Premier LeagueChampions LeagueSoccerLaligaSerie ALigue 1BundesligaFootballPopular TeamsLeague Standings
The Impact of VAR: How it Could Have Altered Football History for England & Diego Maradona

No Hand of God, wonder goal or World Cup win! Peter Shilton explains how VAR would have changed the course of history for England & Diego Maradona

1

Embracing VAR: A Game-Changer for Football

The evolution of technology in football has sparked numerous debates and controversies. Peter Shilton's analysis sheds light on how Video Assistant Referee (VAR) could have had a profound impact on pivotal moments in the sport's history. The absence of VAR in 1986 allowed Maradona's questionable 'Hand of God' goal to stand, forever etching itself into football folklore. The use of VAR would have likely overturned such a contentious decision, altering the course of that fateful match.

2

Diego Maradona's Heroics: A Varied Legacy

Maradona's mesmerizing performance against England transcended mere athleticism, showcasing his unmatched skill and audacity on the pitch. However, with the aid of VAR, the legitimacy of Maradona's individual wonder goal could have been subject to review, potentially shifting the narrative from legendary to questionable. The fine line between genius and controversy in Maradona's career highlights the pivotal role technology plays in redefining historical moments.

3

World Cup Revelations: The Influence of VAR

The outcome of the 1986 World Cup, ultimately won by Argentina, may have been drastically different if VAR had been available. With Maradona's unforgettable performance acting as a catalyst for his nation's victory, the introduction of VAR raises intriguing 'what-if' scenarios. Could technology have altered the destiny of football's most memorable tournament, reshaping the narrative of World Cup history for generations to come?

Published on Jun 29, 2026