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WILL THERE BE VAR AT THE 2026 WORLD CUP?

VAR, that tool loved by some and hated by others, will make a strong comeback at the 2026 World Cup. But this time it won't be the same as before: FIFA has announced substantial improvements to make it faster, more accurate, and more transparent. With new cameras, artificial intelligence, and near real-time decisions, refereeing will undergo a revolution. In this article, we'll tell you what VAR will be like in 2026, what new features it brings, what statistics support its use, and why it promises to forever change the way we watch a football match.

How VAR will work in 2026


The 2026 World Cup will feature an evolved VAR system. After years of criticism and adjustments, FIFA confirmed that "semi-automated VAR" will be implemented for faster and more reliable decisions, especially regarding offsides and penalties. The big news is the AI-powered offside detection system, the same one that debuted at Qatar 2022 but with improvements: now up to 29 points on the player's body will be analyzed, with sensors inside the ball and multiple high-speed cameras. Technologies to be used: Centralized VAR by zones from remote rooms (Remote VAR Rooms). Ball with a chip that detects touch with millimeter precision. 4D cameras for 360° replay reconstruction. Predictive software for interpreting doubtful goal situations. Real-time alerts to referees via smartwatch. Thanks to these advances, decisions will be made in less than 25 seconds on average. The goal is for VAR not to disrupt the flow of the game and to become a silent but fair support. The 2026 World Cup will undoubtedly be a laboratory for technological innovation in refereeing.

Statistics that support the use of VAR


Since its implementation, VAR has been a controversial tool, but the numbers speak for themselves: it has significantly improved refereeing. At the 2018 World Cup, the first with VAR, 17 crucial decisions were corrected. At Qatar 2022, that number rose to 27, with an overall accuracy rate of 96% for reviewed decisions.


In 2026, it is expected to exceed 98% accuracy, thanks to new software and specific training for VAR referees. Furthermore, review times will decrease dramatically, which also helps reduce stress for both players and fans.


Data that doesn't lie


  • 96% accuracy in decisions at Qatar 2022

  • 28% reduction in refereeing errors in tournaments with VAR

  • 33 penalties awarded at Russia 2018 thanks to VAR

  • Average review time: 29 seconds estimated in 2026

  • 61% approval among players according to a FIFPro survey


Although VAR isn't perfect, its benefits far outweigh its drawbacks. Furthermore, referees will receive dual training: on the field and in virtual reality simulators.


And just as importantly: for the first time in a World Cup, fans in the stadiums will be able to see VAR decisions explained on giant screens, as is already the case in American football.


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.

Will the VAR controversy continue?


Let's be honest: VAR is here to stay, but so is the controversy. Because even though the technology is precise, football is still a game of interpretation. Was it a handball? Was there a foul beforehand? Was the contact sufficient? Eternal questions that not even AI can answer 100%.


What is clear is that VAR 2026 will be clearer and faster. There won't be so much "theatrics" in the booths or long minutes of suspense. Fans will know why something is being reviewed, how long it takes, and what the conclusion was.


Do people love it or hate it?


  • 71% of coaches support VAR according to FIFA

  • Only 43% of fans consider it "reliable"

  • Young players accept it more than veterans

  • South America remains the region with the most resistance to VAR

  • VAR errors go viral more than correct decisions


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