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WILL VAR BE KEY IN THE 2026 WORLD CUP?

Will VAR play a starring role at the next World Cup? All signs point to yes. Since its debut in Russia 2018, this system has transformed refereeing. But in 2026, with three host countries (USA, Mexico, and Canada) and more teams than ever before, its influence is expected to grow even further. This article explores how VAR will impact decisions, what technological improvements are coming, statistics that already support it, and how it affects fan excitement. Get ready to understand why VAR isn't just a tool, but a factor that could decide championships.

VAR since its arrival in football


When VAR was officially announced in 2016, many saw it as the definitive solution to refereeing errors. Its debut in major tournaments was at the 2017 Confederations Cup, but it was at Russia 2018 where the world saw it in full action. And although it generated controversy, it also corrected errors that were previously impossible to reverse.


Since then, VAR has become part of the football landscape. In tournaments like the Champions League, Copa Libertadores, and Copa América, its use is almost mandatory. The objective? Increasing fairness in the game, reviewing dubious goals, controversial penalties, red cards, and mistaken identity. Figures that show its impact: At Russia 2018, 455 plays were reviewed, with 20 penalties awarded thanks to VAR. 99.3% of refereeing decisions using VAR were correct (according to FIFA). At Euro 2020, the average review time was just 100 seconds. Since its implementation in the Premier League, more than 120 wrongful decisions have been overturned by VAR. season.


It's clear that VAR is here to stay. Although it generates debate, its accuracy is undeniable. And in the 2026 World Cup, with more matches and teams, it will be an even more critical element.


How VAR Will Change for 2026


It won't be the same VAR we saw in Qatar. For the 2026 World Cup, FIFA is already working on implementing technological improvements that promise to make it faster, more transparent, and more accurate. The most anticipated feature? The automation of the semi-automatic offside call, which was already tested in 2022 and was a success.


In addition, real-time 3D animations are planned to be incorporated to visually show the public why a certain decision was made. Imagine yourself in the stands watching the animated play on the giant screen. Less mystery, more clarity.


New technologies in play


  • Semi-automatic offside with sensors in the ball and multiple cameras.

  • VAR Light: a more accessible system for smaller stadiums.

  • Improved communication between referees and VAR to reduce times.

  • Use of artificial intelligence to pre-identify suspicious plays.

  • More screens in stadiums to show the public the decision-making processes.


All this points to a more Fairer, but also more fan-friendly. VAR isn't just about getting it right: it also wants us to understand what's happening behind the scenes. And in a global tournament, that's key.

The world of football is buzzing with anticipation. The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and national teams are battling for their place in the biggest tournament, where every match defines the dreams and hopes of millions of fans.With three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—this edition promises to be historic: more teams, more goals, and a unique global experience. Coaches are fine-tuning their strategies, and players are vying for their ticket to the most anticipated tournament.The countdown has begun. The ball is about to start rolling, and the whole world awaits the moment a new chapter begins.The World Cup is almost here… and the passion is palpable.

The world of football is buzzing with anticipation. The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and national teams are battling for their place in the biggest tournament, where every match defines the dreams and hopes of millions of fans.With three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—this edition promises to be historic: more teams, more goals, and a unique global experience. Coaches are fine-tuning their strategies, and players are vying for their ticket to the most anticipated tournament.The countdown has begun. The ball is about to start rolling, and the whole world awaits the moment a new chapter begins.The World Cup is almost here… and the passion is palpable.

The Emotional and Sporting Impact of VAR


Love and hate. That sums up the relationship between fans and VAR. Who hasn't screamed a goal with all their heart and soul, only to have it disallowed 30 seconds later for an offside heel? It's frustrating, yes, but also part of the new football. VAR changed not only the game, but how we experience it.


At the 2026 World Cup, that emotional rollercoaster will be even more intense.


At the 2026 World Cup, that emotional rollercoaster will be even more intense.

With 48 teams and decisive matches from the group stage onwards, every VAR intervention can change the course of a match: qualifications, eliminations, or even championships.


Famous cases where VAR was decisive


  • France vs. Australia (Russia 2018): the first penalty reviewed by VAR in World Cup history.

  • Argentina vs. Nigeria (2018): no penalty was awarded after review, and Messi qualified for the round of 16.

  • England vs. Colombia (2018): VAR validated fouls in the penalty area that changed the course of the match.

  • Japan vs. Spain (2022): The goal with a millimeter of precision that eliminated Germany. Each of these plays rewrote chapters of the tournament. And in 2026, VAR will have even more eyes on it. It won't just be the referee; it will be VAR that holds the fate of entire nations in its hands (or monitors). That's how powerful its influence is today.

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