VAR - what it is?
VAR (Video Assistant Referee) is a video recording system whose main task is to verify mistakes made by referees. The first time it was introduced to the world in an official match was in August 2016, during a friendly game between France and Italy. After that, it was gradually implemented in major leagues and tournaments. This technology was revolutionary—not only by combining computer science with sports but also by demonstrating how much we can improve when we integrate technology and push its limits!
How does VAR works
VAR consists of a network of cameras and a team of referees who analyze recordings in real time in a special multimedia center.
During a match, if a controversial situation arises, the main referee can receive assistance in making a decision. However, VAR can only be used in four specific situations:
- Goal – to verify if a goal was scored correctly.
- Penalty – to determine whether a foul occurred inside the penalty box.
- Red Card – to check if a foul qualifies for an instant dismissal from the game.
- Player Identification – to ensure the referee penalizes the correct player.
IT field as broad use in the world
As someone who is constantly learning about new technologies and actively participating in sports (especially football), I often wonder—does IT have to be only about coding? VAR is a perfect example that it doesn’t!
The system relies on HD cameras, Artificial Intelligence (AI) for faster analysis, and motion detection techniques. FIFA even recently introduced a semi-automatic offside detection system — all that of the sake of fair play in football!
Controversy about VAR
While VAR has had a great impact on football, it has also sparked controversy. Like many new tools, it was far from perfect in the beginning. Despite the use of cameras, some referee decisions remained questionable due to unclear interpretations. This led to confusion and disruptions during and after matches.
One major issue was time management. Initially, when referees reviewed a situation, the match clock continued running, causing unnecessary delays. Although this was later fixed by adding stoppage time, some have suggested pausing the clock altogether during VAR checks.
Another concern is that some fans believe VAR technology is "killing" the spirit of the game. But does it really have to be that way?
Is the VAR a future for football?
Despite that VAR is now almost obligatory everywhere in the world, it arrived in the football world with mixed emotions.
Its growth shows us, for sure, that technology will be used more and more to make the sports even more exiciting than before.
Not even that, analyzing data in the matches will reach next level - right now, positions for data analyst are becoming hot topic in the IT field, and those people are climbing in the importance ladder to the top!
I often mention that in my conversations, that starting in this field doesn't need to be scary! Quite contrary, it is very interesting, with so many topics to discover. As an enthusiast of the sports and technology in general, I am encurarging everyone that becoming the part as of IT will have huge advantage in their lives.
If you are active person, also you are intersted in computers - VAR is a living proof that we can combine almost everything in our daily life!
