All football fans and enthusiasts are familiar with the VAR (Video Assistant Referee) system. This system helps referees identify fouls and ensure the rules are followed. Its main purpose is to prevent mistakes that could affect the outcome of a match.
VAR does not overturn the decisions of the on-pitch referee, but is used solely as a support tool.
VAR in football – when is it used
During a match, the video assistant referee may exercise the right to review certain incidents. Generally, this applies to the following four situations:
Penalty decisions – whether there was a foul inside the penalty area (or whether a penalty was wrongly awarded);
Goals and fouls leading up to them – a check is carried out to see if there was offside, a foul or a handball during the build-up to the goal;
Incorrect player identification – if the referee has shown a yellow card to or sent off the wrong player.
Direct red cards – a review of incidents that warrant a sending-off (VAR does not intervene in the case of a second yellow card).
How VAR works in football (the process)
The main stages make up the VAR procedure. The off-pitch team immediately reviews an incident when a controversial moment is spotted during the match (for example, a possible handball in the penalty area). The referee makes an initial decision or stops play to consult the VAR.
A review takes place in the VAR room (Check). The video assistant referee and his assistants (AVARs) are located in a dedicated room. The VAR room is equipped with a large number of monitors. They quickly review replays from various angles and at different speeds.
The referee stops play when a controversial incident arises and then runs to the monitor at the touchline (On-Field Review). He watches the replays carefully and makes the final decision. The initial verdict may be overturned or upheld.
The main VAR is the referee who monitors the match on the screens.
The Assistant VAR (AVAR) is also involved in the decision-making process. This assistant continues to watch the live feed whilst the referee reviews the incident.
Equally important is the work of the replays operator. The technician quickly locates the required camera angles, which enables the right conclusions to be drawn.
It is clear that the VAR system in football has been something of a game-changer, as it has a significant impact on both the result and the flow of the game. Many supporters dislike it, as it has altered the very spirit of the game, its emotional intensity and unpredictability. Another section of fans of this global sport holds the opposite view and supports the introduction of this technology, which is designed to ensure strict adherence to the rules of football.
