Video assistant referees: All you need to know after VAR makes its English debut
The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system came in for criticism during the FA Cup third round replay between Chelsea and Norwich at Stamford Bridge.
Blues forward Willian thought he had been fouled by Timm Klose for a penalty but referee Graham Scott opted not to refer it to the video official Mike Jones, and the Brazilian was booked for diving.
Here, we look at the key issues regarding VAR.
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What decisions can it be used for?
The referee can opt to use VAR on decisions concerning the awarding of goals, penalty kicks, the issuing of straight red cards and cases of mistaken identity. The referee can request assistance with these decisions or it can be recommended by the video officials, but the referee on the pitch has the final say after being talked through what the footage shows.
Where has it been used?
It has been in use all season in Serie A and the Bundesliga, among 15 leagues worldwide to test the technology, while it has only recently been trialled in the Carabao Cup and FA Cup in recent weeks.
Will it be used at the World Cup this summer?
FIFA president Gianni Infantino is certainly keen for that to happen. The game’s law-making body, the International Football Association Board (IFAB) will make a final ruling when it gathers for its annual general meeting in March.
Have there been any teething problems?
As well as the controversy arising at Stamford Bridge, there have been concerns over the delays caused by VAR referrals, with Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri complaining that the game was “turning into baseball”. There was also an embarrassing incident in MLS in September when the decision to send off New England Revolution midfielder Xavier Kouassi using VAR was overturned on appeal.
How regularly has it been used?
ESPN reported there were 309 incidents reviewed using VAR in Serie A up to October 30. Of those, 288 backed the referee’s initial call and 21 decisions were overturned.
Can players, managers or others call for VAR to be used?
Players risk a booking if they attempt to influence any official to use VAR and managers or other non-playing club staff risk being sent to the stand if they do the same, or encroach on the area where the referee is reviewing footage.
