Story by
FIFA World Cup 2026: What does VAR actually mean in soccer?
- Story by
- FIFA World Cup 2026: What does VAR actually mean in soccer?
Photo by Nico Vereecken / PhotoNews via Getty Images
The introduction of VAR has divided soccer fans for years.
There are some who believe helping referees get to the right decision is of the utmost importance, no matter how long it takes.
Others, however, are calling for it to be removed, suggesting the advent of VAR in 2017 has ruined what should theoretically be a simple sport to officiate.
Advertisement
It is difficult to imagine a scenario in which VAR is shelved. Pandora's box, of course, can never truly be shut.
There has not been a more impactful development in soccer since the back pass rule was scrapped in 1992, but what does VAR actually mean?
VAR stands for Video Assistant Referee
It's quite simple, really. The three letters that have created so much discourse in soccer stand for Video Assistant Referee.
Those three letters have changed the landscape of the sport forever. Almost a decade into the VAR era, it continues to divide opinion like no other aspect of the game.
Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images
When does VAR get used in soccer?
The VAR team watches every second of the game they are officiating.
Advertisement
They, however, are only called upon when the on-field referee may have missed a clear and obvious error when making their decision.
Quite what comes under the 'clear and obvious' banner is up for debate, however.
Generally, VAR only gets involved in four areas of the game. They can look at goals, penalties, red cards and cases of mistaken identity.
For the 2026 World Cup , however, their remit will be expanded. Indeed, for the first time in its history, VAR will be allowed to step in to act on incorrectly-awarded corner kicks as well as second yellow cards which may lead to a red card.
Those who have called for an absolute abolishment will soon have to watch VAR get more involved in the sport.
Advertisement
Read more:
Why the 2026 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony won't be held in the US
FIFA make late change to World Cup stadium rule amid heat concerns
Iran set travel date for Mexico World Cup base despite visa delay
