×
App Icon
The Standard e-Paper
Home To Bold Columnists
★★★★ - on Play Store
Download Now

Video Assistant Referee (VAR) explained

A view of the video assistant refereeing (VAR) operation room at the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia International Broadcast Centre (IBC) in Moscow on June 9, 2018 [AFP PHOTO / Mladen ANTONOV]

Video Assistant Referee or what is popularly known as VAR is one of the most controversial systems introduced in football.  

VAR is basically a match official in association football who reviews decisions made by the head referee with the use of video footage and a headset for communication.

Get Full Access for Ksh299/Week
Fact‑first reporting that puts you at the heart of the newsroom. Subscribe for full access.
  • Unlimited access to all premium content
  • Uninterrupted ad-free browsing experience
  • Mobile-optimized reading experience
  • Weekly Newsletters
  • MPesa, Airtel Money and Cards accepted
Already a subscriber? Log in
Football
Harambee Starlets drawn in 2026 Wafcon group of death
Sports
Champions GSU fight back to beat Prisons in Kenya Cup opener
Sports
MMUST target first Kenya Cup win in crucial clash against Impala
Sports
Odemba ready to lead Starlets into 2026 Women Africa Cup of Nations