The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) is now a fixture of top-level football, including at the World Cup. It uses video replays to help the on-field referee correct clear and obvious errors — but only in four specific situations.

What VAR Can Review

  • Goals — and any infringement in the build-up (offside, handball, fouls).
  • Penalty decisions — whether a penalty should or shouldn’t have been given.
  • Direct red cards — not second yellows.
  • Mistaken identity — when the referee books the wrong player.

How a Decision Is Made

A VAR team reviews footage and recommends a check only for "clear and obvious" errors. The referee can then watch the replay pitch-side at the Referee Review Area before making the final call — the on-field official always has the last word.

Why It’s Still Debated

Supporters say VAR gets more big calls right; critics point to long delays, tight offside lines and the loss of spontaneous goal celebrations. Football’s lawmakers continue to refine how — and how quickly — it’s used.