Gabby Logan was quick to address viewers’ disgust after the BBC showed a replay of Hungary striker Barnabas Varga’s sickening collision with Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn in Sunday’s Euro 2024 match. Varga was left unconscious from the incident, and BBC has been criticised for airing footage of the VAR replay during a penalty check.
Hungary defeated Scotland 1-0 in Stuttgart through Kevin Csoboth’s 100th-minute strike, condemning Steve Clarke’s side to a rock-bottom finish in Group A.
But the occasion was marred earlier in the clash when Varga’s horror injury left players in tears as he was treated behind a screen and stretchered off the MHP Arena pitch.
BBC viewers furiously took to social media to share their outrage after the broadcaster aired an action replay of the incident.
And Logan was quick to explain the Beeb’s actions, stating it was UEFA’s decision to show the incident while VAR checked for a potential Hungary penalty.
“All of our thoughts are with Barnabas Varga after that sickening collision, and we are updating you as we get information on his condition,” the BBC host said immediately after full-time.
“We were as shocked as you when they replayed that incident. There are protocols around those kinds of things after Christian Eriksen [collapsed] three years ago.
“We were very surprised when UEFA chose to show that replay, which is why we cut away immediately to a wide angle as soon as we could.”
Scotland’s defeat left them on one point, while Hungary earned a slim chance of progressing to the last 16 as one of the four best third-place teams
Images later showed Hungary’s jubilant squad celebrating with their fans while holding Varga’s shirt to pay tribute to their absent teammates.
Logan added: “Well the Hungary team, there, with Barnabas Varga’s shirt. Varga has been taken to hospital after the incident.
“We are going to let you know what we know when we hear it, but at the moment, we have no update on his condition.
“But his teammates, there, celebrating with him very much at the forefront of their minds.”
Hungary have now confirmed that Varga is in a stable condition and receiving further attention at a hospital in Stuttgart.
A statement read: “Barnabas Varga’s condition is stable! The player of @Fradi_HU is currently in one of the hospitals in Stuttgart! We will inform you immediately if there is any news about its status!”
