In recent years, VAR in soccer has stirred more conversation than almost any other change in the sport. From emotional reactions to passionate debates on social media, VAR—short for Video Assistant Referee—has reshaped how fans experience the beautiful game.
It was introduced to fix obvious errors. But has it improved the sport, or created more confusion? For many, the answer depends on which side of the whistle they stand.
This blog breaks down what VAR is, how it works, why it’s loved, and why some fans still can’t stand it.
What Is VAR in Soccer?
VAR is a system where off-field officials review decisions made by the on-field referee using video footage. They offer advice, but the final call still rests with the head referee.
Unlike regular broadcast angles, VAR cameras cover more angles and offer slow-motion replays, zooms, and overlays that fans never see. This makes the VAR team better equipped to assess tight situations.
When Can VAR Be Used?
VAR is not for every foul or minor incident. It’s limited to four areas:
1. Goal Decisions
Was there an offside? Was there a foul before the ball hit the net? Did the ball go out of play? VAR checks all of that before confirming a goal.
2. Penalty Calls
Was the foul inside the box? Did the player dive? VAR helps in awarding or overturning penalties.
3. Red Cards
Only direct red card incidents are reviewed. It helps in identifying serious fouls, violent conduct, or dangerous play.
4. Mistaken Identity
If the wrong player is booked or sent off, VAR ensures the correct individual is punished.
How VAR Works: Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Incident Occurs
A possible error happens—be it a penalty, goal, or red card.
Step 2: Automatic Review Begins
The VAR team immediately starts reviewing the footage in the background.
Step 3: Communication with Referee
If VAR sees a potential error, they notify the referee via headset.
Step 4: Decision or On-Field Review
The referee either changes the decision based on advice or goes to the pitchside monitor to rewatch the footage.
Step 5: Final Call
The referee announces their final decision, and play resumes.
How Long Does a VAR Check Take?
On average, VAR checks take 1–2 minutes. Some, like tight offsides or unclear handballs, take longer. The longest VAR reviews have gone over 4 minutes, often frustrating fans in the stadium who get no explanation during the delay.
The Pros of VAR in Soccer
1. Higher Accuracy
A FIFA report in 2020 revealed VAR increased correct decisions from 93% to 98.3%. That’s a massive improvement in a sport where a single wrong call can change everything.
2. Better Accountability
Referees are no longer alone. They get technical support, helping reduce the pressure and the likelihood of costly errors.
3. Fairer Results
Teams that used to suffer from poor calls now feel more protected. The balance of power has shifted from guesswork to evidence.
The Cons of VAR in Soccer
1. Kills the Flow
One of the biggest criticisms is the interruption to the game’s rhythm. Soccer is loved for its fast transitions—VAR often pauses the excitement.
2. Delayed Celebrations
Imagine scoring in the 90th minute, only to have to wait 2 minutes to celebrate. That’s the emotional letdown many fans and players now face.
3. Inconsistent Use
Not all leagues apply VAR the same way. Some let the referee take the lead. Others rely more on the video team. This inconsistency leads to more confusion.
Why Fans Love VAR
Fixes Big Mistakes
When their team is wronged by a missed handball or bad offside call, fans appreciate that VAR is there to set things right.
More Fairness in Major Games
In finals and knockout matches, one bad call can ruin years of hard work. VAR adds a safety net.
Transparency
Some leagues, like MLS, are testing live audio between referees and the VAR booth, helping fans understand decisions better.
Why Fans Hate VAR
Too Robotic
Many fans argue that VAR removes the human side of soccer. Every touch, every fall is now judged by a screen—not instinct.
Ruling by Millimeters
Offside decisions decided by a toe or fingertip seem harsh and disconnected from the spirit of the rule.
Overuse in Some Leagues
Some referees rely too much on VAR, hesitating to make confident on-field decisions.
Famous VAR Moments That Sparked Global Debate
- 2018 World Cup Final – A handball decision awarded France a penalty. Croatia was furious.
- 2019 Champions League Quarter-Final – Spurs advanced past Man City thanks to a last-minute VAR offside check.
- 2022 MLS Cup Playoffs – LAFC benefited from a reversed penalty decision that changed the game’s momentum.
These moments remind us of the thin line between justice and controversy.
VAR in MLS: Progress or Problem?
MLS was one of the first leagues to embrace VAR in 2017. Since then:
- Match errors have dropped
- Red card accuracy has improved
- Fan reactions remain mixed
While the system has helped, MLS faces criticism over communication delays and unclear reasons for overturned decisions.
Player and Coach Opinions on VAR
Players
Some feel more secure knowing unfair red cards or offside goals will be reviewed. Others feel robbed of their spontaneous joy when goals are paused and reversed.
Coaches
Most agree it helps with game fairness, but many want faster decisions and better explanations during games.
How VAR Is Changing Player Behavior
Players now:
- Dive less, knowing cameras are watching
- Avoid sneaky fouls behind the play
- Appeal decisions less dramatically, hoping VAR will step in
This change in behavior has slightly improved sportsmanship but also made the game feel less instinctive to some.
Is VAR Hurting Referee Confidence?
Some analysts suggest referees are becoming hesitant. Knowing VAR is behind them, they delay big decisions or pass the responsibility.
Training is being revamped to help referees trust their eyes first, then lean on VAR only when needed.
New Technology: What’s Next for VAR in Soccer?
1. Semi-Automated Offside Technology
Used in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, this system uses sensors and cameras to auto-flag offsides in real time.
2. AI and Machine Learning
Future systems may review thousands of angles at once, speeding up decisions using predictive modeling.
3. Referee Audio for Fans
MLS and Premier League are testing referee microphones to explain decisions directly to fans—similar to rugby or American football.
Fan Engagement: Can VAR Be Fun?
To improve fan experience, leagues are:
- Adding VAR replays on stadium screens
- Using clear on-screen graphics to explain calls
- Letting broadcasters bring in former referees to explain decisions live
These efforts help reduce confusion and build trust.
Global Stats: What Do the Numbers Say?
- In 2021, FIFA data showed VAR made over 2,400 corrections across top leagues.
- 91% of coaches surveyed in UEFA Champions League supported VAR.
- Fan approval varies: 60% of MLS fans support VAR, compared to 45% in La Liga, according to a 2023 survey.
VAR in Women’s Soccer
VAR is now being used in the NWSL and Women’s World Cup, marking a huge leap in support for fairness in the women’s game. Early feedback has been positive, but calls for more consistent use remain.
How VAR Affects Broadcast and Social Media
Matches now include:
- Live VAR analysis segments
- Social media trends based on controversial calls
- Post-match debates focused entirely on VAR reviews
This has expanded the conversation, making VAR a permanent part of post-game coverage.
Does VAR Change the Soul of Soccer?
This is the core question. Purists argue soccer’s appeal was its flow, unpredictability, and simplicity. VAR introduces complexity and delay.
But others argue it reflects modern sport—precise, reviewed, and accountable.
There’s truth in both.
Final Thoughts: The VAR Verdict
Love it or hate it, VAR in soccer is here to stay. The best path forward is not to remove it—but to improve it. Faster reviews, clearer communication, and consistent use across leagues will help fans trust it more.
Soccer is evolving, and VAR is now part of its DNA.
FAQs
What does VAR stand for in soccer?
VAR stands for Video Assistant Referee. It helps correct major on-field decisions using video replays.
When did VAR start in soccer?
It was first tested in 2016 and officially introduced in the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
Why do fans dislike VAR?
Because of delays, inconsistent use, and the emotional impact of paused celebrations or reversed goals.
How accurate is VAR in soccer?
According to FIFA, it improves decision accuracy from 93% to 98%.
Is VAR used in every soccer league?
No. While most top leagues use VAR, some lower divisions and grassroots competitions do not due to cost and logistics.
Can referees ignore VAR advice?
Yes. The head referee has the final say and can choose not to change their original decision.
Will VAR keep improving?
Definitely. With better tech and clearer rules, VAR is expected to become faster, more accurate, and more transparent in the future.
![Best Soccer Gloves for Goalkeepers [2025 Picks]](https://dailyfaithliving.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Best-Soccer-Gloves-for-Goalkeepers-2025-Picks-150x150.jpg)
