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| Image: FIFA |
In an effort to bring fairness to football at all levels without relying on complex VAR technology, FIFA has introduced the Football Video Support (FVS) system. This new video support system is currently being tested by FIFA, designed to reduce costs and provide referee assistance for tournaments with limited resources. FVS was first trialed at the U-20 Women’s World Cup and is expected to continue testing at other youth competitions in the future.
Unlike VAR, which involves a dedicated team of video referees reviewing all critical situations, FVS allows coaches to directly participate in reviewing referee decisions. Each coach has the right to request two reviews per match. If the request is upheld and the referee’s original decision is changed, the coach retains their challenge for potential later use. Applicable scenarios for these requests include goals, penalties, red cards, and player misidentifications.
FIFA is implementing FVS with the aim of meeting the needs of member associations, particularly those with limited budgets. This system allows competitions that cannot fully implement VAR to still benefit from technological support in ensuring accurate decisions on the field. FVS is a flexible and efficient solution that does not require complex technological infrastructure like VAR, expanding fairness to a wider range of football competitions around the world.
The testing of FVS technology reflects FIFA’s commitment to improving quality and fairness in football, particularly at youth levels and in competitions that lack the resources for full VAR implementation. Success during the FVS trial phase will be a stepping stone toward broader adoption of this technology, opening a new path for referee assistance in professional football.
When Will FVS Be Released?
FIFA has not yet set a specific release date for the Football Video Support (FVS) technology, as it remains in the testing phase. Initial trials began at the Blue Stars/FIFA Youth Cup in May 2024, followed by extended tests at the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup in Colombia from August to September 2024.
FVS is expected to be a simpler and more cost-effective alternative to the traditional VAR system, aimed at tournaments that lack the resources for full VAR implementation. Unlike VAR, FVS allows coaches to request video reviews for certain decisions, giving them the right to challenge specific referee calls. FIFA will evaluate the results of these trials and consult with stakeholders to decide on the next steps, which may include additional trials or limited rollouts in select competitions.
With initial trials showing positive results, FIFA’s continued evaluation of the system indicates a possibility for further trials or potential implementation in the coming years, though no specific timeline has been confirmed.
