The video review system in association football: implementation and effectiveness for match officials and referee education

Abstract

ABSTRACT Rationale There has been continued debate in the world of sport over the effectiveness and merits of video technology as a decision aid for sports officials. In 2018, the video assistant referee (VAR) was introduced in association football. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence and effectiveness of a video review system for match officials and their education in association football. Design Using an online video test, qualified football referees (N = 109) categorized contentious penalty decisions across 48 short videos. Manipulating the number of viewings, playback speed and visual perspectives, referee decision accuracy and decision confidence were assessed. Findings The results show an overall decision accuracy of 65.69%. Additionally, the results reveal significant differences between the different review conditions; particularly, improvements in accuracy for an increased number of viewings, a slowed playback speed and alternate visual perspectives. Practical implications The results provide a greater understanding of the effects a decision review system in association football has on the decision accuracy and confidence of referees and further contribute to the use of video review for referee education. Research contribution The current study extends research on the effects of different viewing perspectives, repeated viewings, and slower video speed on visual accuracy and the quality of cognitive-evaluative processes.