VAR: Origins and Key Applications on the Field

Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, originally tested in 2016 and officially approved by the Football Association Board in 2018, has become a pivotal tool in the world of football.

Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, originally tested in 2016 and officially approved by the Football Association Board in 2018, has become a pivotal tool in the world of football.

From its debut in the 2018 World Cup to its subsequent implementation in various national competitions, VAR has revolutionized the way referees make decisions on the field.

Origins and Global Adoption:

Initially introduced in football during the 2018 World Cup in Russia, VAR had a notable impact on the game. Its first significant use occurred in a match between Australia and France, where a penalty for the French team was awarded after a VAR review revealed an initially unnoticed foul. Following its success on the global stage, VAR found its way into Brazilian football during the 2018 Copa do Brasil quarterfinals, specifically in the match between Santos and Cruzeiro.

Key Uses of VAR:

VAR serves multiple purposes on the football field, offering assistance to referees in critical decision-making moments. The primary situations that may lead to VAR usage include penalties, goals, red cards, and cases of mistaken identity among players.

1. Penalties:
   VAR plays a crucial role in evaluating penalty decisions made by on-field referees. Whether the referee misses a foul or makes an incorrect call, the VAR system ensures a fair outcome by reviewing the incident and either confirming the decision, annulling the play, or awarding a penalty if necessary.
2. Goals:
   The validation or annulment of goals is another common application of VAR. Referees consult the video assistant to determine if a goal was scored from an offside position, if the ball touched a player’s hand, or to confirm the ball crossing the goal line. Only after VAR confirms the regularity of the play can the referee restart the game.
3. Red Cards:
   In instances of suspected fouls or violent conduct on the field, VAR aids referees in assessing potential red card offenses. This ensures that acts of aggression do not go unnoticed, allowing for fair punishment and maintaining the integrity of the game.
4. Mistaken Identity:
   VAR serves as a tool for rectifying errors in identifying players involved in a foul. Referees can consult the video assistant to accurately determine which player committed the infraction, preventing unjust decisions and ensuring proper issuance of cards.

While VAR has become an integral part of modern football officiating, it adheres to specific protocols. Notably, it cannot influence decisions related to ball possession or issue warnings for yellow cards.

As VAR continues to evolve, its role in ensuring fairness and accuracy on the football field remains paramount.