Rabat – The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has decided to introduce the video assistant referee (VAR) system from the group stage of the CAF Champions League and the CAF Confederation Cup for the 2026-2027 season.
The decision marks an expansion of the technology’s use in the continent’s two major club competitions, where VAR was previously introduced from the quarterfinal stage.
The move aims to reduce major refereeing errors and ensure greater fairness and equal opportunities for participating clubs throughout the competitions.
Previously, the use of VAR was limited to the knockout rounds, starting with the quarterfinals. Logistical challenges and differences in stadium infrastructure had restricted its implementation during the group stage.
Under the new measure, the technology will be used across all group-stage matches in both competitions, extending video review to an earlier phase of the tournament.
Stadiums must meet VAR requirements
The decision will require CAF and participating clubs to ensure that approved stadiums meet the technical and logistical requirements needed to operate the system.
These preparations will include providing the necessary infrastructure and equipment to enable VAR officials to review key match incidents in accordance with standards set by the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA).
The expansion is intended to improve the consistency of refereeing decisions and limit the impact of errors on match results.
Group-stage matches can be decisive in determining which clubs advance to the knockout rounds, making refereeing decisions particularly important for teams competing for qualification.
By extending VAR coverage to this stage, CAF aims to provide participating clubs with the same video-review framework throughout the competition.
A wider role for technology in African football
The introduction of VAR from the group stage represents a further step in CAF’s efforts to strengthen refereeing standards in continental club football.
The technology allows match officials to review specific incidents involving goals, penalty decisions, direct red cards, and mistaken identity, in line with VAR protocols.
Its expanded use will require coordination between CAF, stadium operators, and participating clubs to ensure the system is available and operational during matches.
The 2026-2027 season will therefore see VAR play a broader role in both the CAF Champions League and the CAF Confederation Cup, with its use no longer restricted to the knockout rounds.
The success of the measure will depend on the readiness of stadiums and the effective implementation of the required technical arrangements across the competitions.
