VAR protocol

The 90 provisions of this law that Ruleside argues from, in the order they are printed. Each one has its own address and lists every verdict, incident and rules page that turns on it.

The use of video assistant referees (VARs) is only permitted where the match/ competition organiser has fulfilled all the implementation requirements as set out in the VAR Handbook, and has received written permission from FIFA.p153 · cited by 2 pages

1. Principles

The use of VARs in football matches is based on a number of principles, all of which must apply in every match using VARs (except for incorrectly awarded corner kicks – see point e. under ‘2. Reviewable decisions/incidents').p153 · cited by 1 page
A video assistant referee (VAR) is a match official, with independent access to match footage, who may assist the referee only in the event of a ‘clear and obvious error' or ‘serious missed incident' in relation to:p153 · cited by 1 page
The referee must always make a decision, i.e. the referee is not permitted to give ‘no decision' and then use the VAR to make the decision; a decision to allow play to continue after an alleged offence can be reviewed.p153 · cited by 1 page
The original decision given by the referee will not be changed unless the video review clearly shows that the decision was a ‘clear and obvious error'.p153 · cited by 7 pages
Only the referee can initiate a ‘review'; the VAR (and other match officials) can only recommend a ‘review' to the referee.p154 · cited by 1 page
The final decision is always taken by the referee, either based on information from the VAR or after the referee has undertaken an ‘on-field review' (OFR).p154 · cited by 2 pages
The players and team officials must not surround the referee or attempt to influence if a decision is reviewed, the review process or the final decision.p154 · cited by 1 page
The referee must remain ‘visible' during the review process to ensure transparency.p154 · cited by 1 page
If play continues after an incident which is then reviewed, any disciplinary action taken/required during the post-incident period is not cancelled, even if the original decision is changed (except a caution/sending-off for stopping or interfering with a promising attack or DOGSO).p154 · cited by 1 page
The period of play before and after an incident that can be reviewed is determined by the Laws of the Game and VAR protocol.p154 · cited by 1 page
As the VAR will automatically ‘check' every situation/decision, there is no need for coaches or players to request a ‘review'.p154 · cited by 1 page

2. Reviewable decisions/incidents

3. Practicalities

4. Procedures

Match validity

Incapacitated VAR, AVAR or replay operator

Provisions this site does not cite are not listed, so this is not a copy of the Laws. The full text is published by The IFAB. All laws.