UEFA's standardised VAR review process  

Analysing incidents in the same structured way across all European domestic and national competitions helps to promote greater understanding of how VAR decisions are taken – not just among referees and VAR teams, but also broadcasters, clubs, players and supporters. In turn, this will strengthen confidence in VAR throughout the game.

To support referees and strengthen confidence in VAR throughout the game, we recommend match officials follow a common four-step review sequence at the pitch-side monitor.

Standard four-step process

Step 1: Offence identification

The review should begin with the clearest angle showing the alleged offence. Where necessary, a frozen image can be used to help identify the exact point of contact or key moment. The priority is not to make an immediate decision but to establish precisely what happened.

Step 2: Technical assessment

The referee should then analyse the incident using a tight camera angle, typically through two or three replays shown at 50% speed. Replays should be repeated to show the complete player movement and facilitate a detailed technical assessment of the action.

Step 3: Context at normal speed

After review of the technical details, the incident should be assessed in its full context. By deploying a wider camera angle and two or three replays at normal speed, the referee can watch the build-up, the incident itself, and several seconds afterwards. This phase helps to evaluate factors such as intensity, dynamic movement, impact and any tactical considerations that may influence a final decision.

Step 4: Final decision

The VAR review process should then finish with the most conclusive image available in support of the referee’s final decision. This ensures that the outcome is based on the strongest and most relevant visual evidence.