Major League Soccer to implement Video Assistant Referees
July 21, 2017
Major League Soccer confirmed that beginning 5 August all MLS games will incorporate video review, including the Audi 2017 MLS Cup Playoffs and MLS Cup.
In compliance with procedures outlined by The International Football Association Board (IFAB), the universal decision-making body for the Laws of the Game, a fifth member of a game’s officiating crew, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) will have access to all available broadcast angles and check all plays for potential errors or serious missed incidents.
The VAR is located in a booth at the stadium, outside the pitch.
MLS is among the pioneers of this initiative worldwide, partnering with the United Soccer Leagues (USL), to facilitate the first test in live competition, on 12 August 2016, at Red Bull Arena.
MLS to implement Video Review league-wide beginning Aug. 5: https://t.co/aznLbnNM5F pic.twitter.com/xTXDEKj92c
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 20, 2017
The IFAB will conduct a two-year global study of the implementation of video review in various competitions before making a final decision about the incorporation of the VAR into Laws of the Game.
A decision is expected in 2018, or 2019 at the latest.
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