Video Assistant Referee Rules

Video Assistant Referee Rules Explained

Introduction of VAR in the Premier League
The Video Assistant Referee Rules (VAR) was introduced to the Premier League in the 2019/20 season after all clubs unanimously approved its use in November 2018. VAR is present for all 380 matches each season, supported by an Assistant VAR, to monitor games in real-time.

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Key Principles of VAR
VAR is used only in four critical match situations: goals, penalties, red cards, and mistaken identity.

1. Goals
– Every goal is automatically checked by VAR for any rule violations during the attacking play leading up to it.
– Factual decisions (e.g., offside or the ball out of play) are reported to the referee, who can overturn the goal.
– Subjective decisions (e.g., fouls or handballs) require VAR to confirm a “clear and obvious error” before intervention.
– The referee communicates their on-field decision to VAR, known as the “Referee’s Call.”
– If VAR identifies a clear error, they recommend the referee review the footage on a pitchside monitor.
– The final decision is always made by the on-field referee.

2. Penalties
– VAR checks all awarded penalties and reviews incidents where a penalty may have been missed.
– It verifies the attacking play leading up to the penalty for any violations.
– Factual errors (e.g., offside or the ball out of play) are corrected by VAR.
– Subjective decisions (e.g., fouls or handballs) are reviewed if a “clear and obvious error” is evident.
– Referees may use pitch side monitors for further review, but the final decision rests with them.
– If a penalty decision is overturned with no foul committed by the attacking team, play resumes with an uncontested drop ball for the defending team.

3. Red Cards
– All red card decisions are reviewed by VAR.
– VAR also checks for missed red card incidents or those incorrectly given as yellow cards.
– Referees confirm their decision with VAR, and if evidence shows a “clear and obvious error,” a pitch side monitor review is recommended.
– Certain offences (e.g., violent conduct, spitting, or abusive behavior) can still be reviewed retrospectively by The FA.
– VAR does not intervene in cases of second yellow cards unless they believe the yellow should be upgraded to a direct red.

4.Mistaken Identity
– If the referee issues a yellow or red card to the wrong player or is unsure of the culprit, VAR informs them of the correct player.
– The on-field referee always makes the final decision.
High Standard for VAR Intervention
The Premier League sets a high bar for VAR involvement, especially in subjective decisions:
– The referee’s decision (“Referee’s Call”) will stand unless VAR identifies a “clear and obvious error” based on available evidence.

– For subjective calls, VAR ensures the attacking play leading to the incident is reviewed before recommending a decision.
For factual decisions, the “clear and obvious error” rule does not apply. These include:
– Offside
– Accidental handball by a goal scorer
– Whether a foul occurred inside or outside the penalty area
– The ball going out of play
– Goalkeeper movement or encroachment during a penalty
– Mistaken identity

Final Decision
In all situations, the referee on the pitch has the final say after considering VAR’s input. This ensures the match is officiated with fairness and consistency while maintaining the authority of the on-field official.