What does VAR stand for in soccer officiating?

VAR stands for Video Assistant Referee. This system was introduced to assist the on-field referees with critical decisions during a match, using video technology to review certain incidents. The Video Assistant Referee operates outside the field of play and is tasked with reviewing footage to help ensure that clear and obvious errors in key match situations—such as goals, penalty decisions, direct red card incidents, and mistaken identity—are corrected. The use of VAR aims to increase the accuracy of officiating and improve the overall fairness of the game.

Understanding the role of the Video Assistant Referee is crucial for officials and players alike, as it signifies a significant evolution in how matches are officiated. Other options do not accurately reflect the established term used in the context of soccer officiating, which can lead to confusion about the system's functionality and purpose.