Brann and Viking will be rivals in a sold-out Bergen derby tonight, but away from the pitch they have found common ground: opposition to VAR. The clubs are joining a renewed effort to change Norwegian football's approach to video refereeing, even as Viking return to a closely fought title race.
Rivals with a shared cause
Brann announced on 6 October that they and Viking want to join Rosenborg's working group on VAR. The group, led by Ola By Rise, is gathering information to support the campaign against the system. Brann board member Per Arne Flatberg will represent the Bergen club.
For Brann, this follows their members' 2024 decision that the club should take a clear position against VAR in Norwegian football. Chairman Arild Mjøs Andersen says the club has continued to raise its objections with football's governing bodies.
This is a campaign to change the position, not an announcement that VAR has been scrapped. Brann's statement acknowledges that a majority at the federation congress voted to retain it. The clubs' challenge is to persuade that majority to change its mind.
Viking have points to protect
Viking begin the evening top of the Eliteserien, level on 50 points with Bodø/Glimt. Brann are seventh on 29 points. That leaves the visitors with a very different league objective, but no easy assignment in front of a packed home crowd.
Brann's last league match was a 2-1 home win over Bodø/Glimt on 20 September. It followed defeats against Lillestrøm and Start. Beating one of the title contenders gave them a response to those setbacks; now they face the other side at the top.
The football and the VAR campaign are separate stories. There is no need to turn tonight's match into a verdict on the technology: Viking need points, Brann want to build on their last league win, and the derby gives both sets of fans plenty to focus on.
Tonight's derby details
Friday 9 October, 6pm BST / 7pm in Norway
Brann Stadion, Bergen
Eliteserien
Brann have confirmed that both the home and away sections are sold out. Supporters attending are urged to arrive early, with gates opening at 5:45pm local time. Returned seats may be released through the club's official ticket page, so supporters should check there for availability.
Follow our fixture schedule and latest results. Tonight, the shared campaign gives the rivals something in common. Once the whistle goes, the points will matter most.
Sources: Brann's VAR statement, matchday guide and September results, alongside current Eliteserien standings and fixture details. League positions are those before kick-off.
