NEWS · 14 Oct 2026
Brighton defender Pascal Struijk's red card overturned after VAR review
A red card issued to Brighton's Pascal Struijk in the match against Sunderland was overturned after a VAR check, sparking debate over the decision. The reversal came as the referee reviewed the incident, ultimately ruling that the foul was not severe enough for dismissal.
During the recent match between Brighton & Hove Albion and Sunderland, Pascal Struijk received a red card following a challenge on an opponent. The referee initially sent him off, but the decision was immediately reviewed by the VAR team.
After a brief review, the VAR team determined that the contact did not meet the threshold for a serious foul, and the referee overturned the red card. This reversal has drawn attention from both clubs and the wider football community.
The decision is significant because it affects Brighton’s squad for the remainder of the season, allowing the defender to remain available for upcoming fixtures. It also raises questions about consistency in the application of disciplinary rules.
Sunderland will not face any disciplinary action as a result of the incident, and both teams will continue to prepare for their next league matches.
While the FA may review the incident, the immediate impact is a full squad for Brighton and a clear example of how VAR can alter on‑field decisions in real time.