Football rules
What is VAR?
VAR helps referees check big moments on video. The diagram shows how it works — then you can ask FootyPlain during a live match.
VAR officials watch replays and advise the referee on the pitch. The referee still makes the final decision.
Learn in 3 steps
What VAR checks
Goals, penalties, red cards, and mistaken identity — the big decisions that can change a match.
How it works
A team in the video room watches replays and tells the referee if something looks wrong. The referee can watch on a pitch-side screen.
Final call
The referee on the field always decides. VAR advises — it does not overrule on its own.
For teachers & parents
Explain that VAR is a helper, not a replacement for the referee. Practice with a clip: pause and ask “Would you check this on VAR?” Then open a live match on FootyPlain when a review happens.
Tip: turn on child-friendly mode in chat settings for simpler words and picture-style answers.