For spectators, the reference of VAR by the commentators is a very new part of football terminology. And after the increased use during the World Cup 2018, we wanted to create an article investigating further into what VAR actually is.
Believed to greatly improve the accuracy of referee opinions, below we will take a look into how this form of video recall is beneficial. And to review this fully, we will also discuss instances where the intervention of VAR was inconclusive or faulted.
About VAR
VAR stands for Video Assistant Referees, and its main purpose is to ensure that all decisions regarding the treatment of incidents are kept fair and accurate for both sides. As the on-pitch referees often could miss a significant occurrence of an infringement of rules, or even favour one squad over another, this type of reassurance from a team of referees improves the accuracy of ref decisions.
The four main incidents where this type of recall would be needed are: