VAR in CONMEBOL Tournaments: Transparency, Steps, and Impact

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Referee support is available at CONMEBOL tournaments, and this includes the ongoing use of video assistance that has become a staple in the region. The continent has embraced VAR technology for more than five years, applying it across major competitions such as the Copa Libertadores, the Copa Sudamericana, the Recopa, and recent editions of Copa América qualifiers and several other events. The initial rollout began in the lead-up to Qatar 2022, signaling a shift toward greater accuracy and transparency in officiating.

WHAT DOES VAR MEAN?

In February 2020, CONMEBOL confirmed the rollout would begin with the first double match window, originally scheduled for March but postponed to October due to the global health crisis. As the season unfolds, referees in CONMEBOL tournaments continue to rely on video assistance in tandem with the organization’s broader officiating framework.

HOW TO USE

  1. Video systems capture the moment from multiple camera angles. To ensure transparency, VAR operates with a Reproduction Operator who has independent access to all official broadcast feeds. This guarantees that every review uses the same footage viewers see on television.
  2. All relevant perspectives are transmitted to the Video Operator Room for assessment.
  3. The VAR evaluates the incident using the available audiovisual material and established protocols.
  4. The VAR communicates findings to the central referee and may recommend an on-field review when necessary.
  5. The referee has the option to request a review on the field according to the situation on the pitch.

THE STEPS TO FOLLOW

  1. An incident occurs and the VAR checks for a clear and obvious error or serious misjudgment.
  2. If a clear and obvious foul is detected, the VAR advises the referee to review the situation.
  3. The referee can accept the VAR advice by signaling the TV screen or decide to evaluate the play within the confines of the match review area.

THE REVIEW PROCESS WILL BE PUBLIC

The governing body made a pivotal decision after controversy in the first leg of the quarter-finals between River Plate and Cerro Porteño during the 2019 Copa Libertadores. Víctor Carrillo, the on-field official, used the video arbitration system twice. Since then, CONMEBOL has stated that in all matches, fans will have access to video refereeing footage and can hear the dialogue between the referee and the VAR center. The aim is greater transparency about how decisions are reviewed on the field of play.

GOALS

The primary function is to determine with high certainty whether the ball fully crossed the line, whether any fouls occurred, and to assess offside positions accurately. This requires precise interpretation of whether the ball has completely crossed the line and whether there were any actions that should affect the play’s outcome.

SANCTIONS

The VAR system supports the central referees by reducing the likelihood of incorrect calls during live play, helping to maintain fair competition and clear accountability on the field.

RED CARDS

Red card situations are also subject to review. In some cases, expulsions may be disputed or not fully aligned with referee intent, and VAR can play a decisive role in clarifying the correct sanction when necessary.

IDENTITY ERRORS

When a player is cautioned or sent off and there is doubt about the responsible party, the VAR team can inform the whistleblower of the accurate incident and ensure the correct decision is applied.

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