Using the same test set-up with the stroboscope and repetitive flashes, this test validates whether the flashes appear on the same frames across all camera feeds provided by the VAR systems. A lack of synchronicity could lead to erroneous decisions. This is particularly important for scenarios that require views from multiple camera angles, such as with offsides, where the footage of the ball being played and the actual potential offside situation are frequently best identified in two different camera feeds. VAR providers must be able to ensure that the camera feeds that they display to the VAR are in sync. All of these tests are carried out using the light source from a flashing stroboscope to exactly measure the time difference between the event occurring and when it shows up on the screen. This is therefore tested with a number of latency measurements to ensure that providers can both deliver the broadcast feed with minimal to no delay and equally present a review screen with a three-second delay to the video match officials. One of the biggest risks with VAR systems is the possibility of delayed video feeds preventing the VAR from intervening in time. While the development of smaller systems is progressing and the first tests using VAR Light systems are under way, the focus of the FIFA Quality testing is to check the interaction of the whole set-up and the performance of the system in three main areas: latency, synchronicity and video quality. Using VAR technology in games still requires an extensive set-up including numerous computers, servers, screens and cables. With the certification of VAR systems under the new global quality standard of the FIFA Quality Programme, FIFA is taking the next step in providing competition organisers with guidance on the technical quality of different VAR systems. As of today, over 100 competitions have used or are using the technology to provide their referees with a supportive tool in potentially game-changing situations. From 16 to 18 August in Stockholm, Sweden, the FIFA Quality Programme hosted a test event for VAR system providers to formally certify their systems, with providers from Europe and the USA participating.įollowing its successful implementation at the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ and the FIFA Women’s World Cup France 2019™, the use of video assistant refereeing has rapidly accelerated.