Who is the VAR, and where do they work?

The video assistant referee (VAR) is a match official with independent access to match footage who can assist the referee only for a clear and obvious error or serious missed incident. Under the IFAB VAR protocol:

• The VAR watches the match in the video operation room (VOR), assisted by one or more assistant VARs (AVARs) and replay operators.
• The VAR has independent access to, and replay control of, the TV broadcast footage.
• The VAR hears everything the on-field officials say, but can speak to the referee only by pushing a button, so the referee is not distracted by conversations in the VOR.
• The VAR has the same status as the other match officials and can only assist. The referee makes the final decision.
• VARs may only be used where the competition organiser has met the requirements in the VAR Handbook and has written permission from FIFA.

Source: IFAB, Video Assistant Referee (VAR) protocol, 2026/27 Laws of the Game.