Starting this weekend, MLS will officially add video reviews to its officiating process. The league has been testing out the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) process throughout the season and it has already been implemented in major tournaments, including the FIFA Confederations Cup. Here is a handy guide to help you understand the role of the VAR in a match.
The VAR’s main purpose is to avoid clear mistakes and make sure serious incidents aren’t missed by the head referee on the pitch. They use all broadcast camera angles to review plays that fall into four categories:
- Goals
- Penalty Kicks
- Direct Red Cards
- Mistaken Identity
The VAR cannot review a play outside of those four areas.