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Var

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Editorial illustration for How VAR Actually Works: The Four Reviewable Incidents and the "Clear and Obvious Error" Test
The Pitch

How VAR Actually Works: The Four Reviewable Incidents and the "Clear and Obvious Error" Test

Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology intervenes in football only for four specific match-changing situations: goals, penalties, direct red cards, and mistaken identity. Interventions occur only when the on-field call is a "clear and obvious error" or a factual mistake plainly corrected by video evidence, with the final decision always resting with the referee.

Sofia Castillo·October 20, 2026
Jude Bellingham celebrates a goal for England against Norway in a World Cup quarter-final, with Norwegian players protesting near a visible overhead camera cable.
The Pitch

Jude Bellingham goal stood despite SkyCam controversy

In a World Cup quarter-final, England's winning goal against Norway stood despite furious protests from Norwegian players claiming the ball hit an overhead SkyCam cable.

Sofia Castillo·July 12, 2026