The Scottish FA have published the full VAR audio from the flashpoint moment involving Dujon Sterling’s late handball against Celtic — and the conversation has sparked fresh debate across Scottish football.
The incident, which occurred deep into stoppage time at Ibrox, ultimately led to Celtic being awarded a penalty in a dramatic 2-2 draw. Now, supporters have been given rare insight into exactly how the officials reached that decision.
The flashpoint moment
With the game hanging in the balance, Daizen Maeda’s close-range header struck Sterling inside the box. Referee Nick Walsh initially waved play on before being instructed to pause the match for a VAR check.
The newly released audio captures the calm but detailed exchange between the on-field referee and the VAR team as they analysed multiple angles of the incident.
What the VAR officials said
According to the recording, the VAR quickly identified a potential issue with Sterling’s arm position.
One official can be heard saying the Rangers defender’s arm was “away from the body” and that it had made his silhouette “bigger,” language that directly reflects IFAB’s handball guidelines.
Walsh was then advised to review the footage on the pitchside monitor.
After examining several replays, the referee concluded that Sterling’s arm was not in a justifiable position for the movement he was making and awarded Celtic a penalty.
Why the audio matters
The release of the audio is part of the Scottish FA’s wider effort to improve transparency around major decisions.
For many supporters, hearing the officials methodically reference the wording of the laws — particularly around making the body “unnaturally bigger” — offers clarity on why the call was made.
However, it has also reignited debate. Critics argue the interpretation remains subjective, especially in high-speed situations where defenders have little time to react.
Reaction remains split
Unsurprisingly, reaction to the audio has mirrored the original controversy.
Some believe the conversation proves the officials followed protocol correctly and applied the law as written. Others insist the law itself is the problem, arguing that intent should play a bigger role in such decisions.
What is clear is that the audio confirms there was no hesitation or confusion in the VAR room — the focus was firmly on arm position and whether Sterling had taken the risk of extending it away from his body.
Bigger picture for Scottish football
The decision ultimately allowed Celtic to rescue a crucial point in the title race, but the broader conversation now centres on officiating standards and consistency.
By releasing the audio, the Scottish FA have taken a step toward openness — yet whether it settles the argument or fuels it further remains to be seen.
One thing is certain: the debate around handball law interpretation in Scottish football is far from over.