CAF to introduce VAR from group stages of Champions League and Confederation Cup

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is set to introduce video assistant referees (VAR) from the group stages of its two leading club competitions.

The measure is expected to take effect from the 2026-27 season in both the CAF Champions League and the CAF Confederation Cup.

The development was reported by journalist Micky Jnr, who said CAF acting secretary general Samson Adamu had confirmed the planned change.

If implemented as announced, VAR will be available from the group stage rather than being restricted to the knockout rounds, as has been the case in the competitions.

The system could improve the accuracy of refereeing decisions in key incidents, including goals, penalties, direct red cards and cases of mistaken identity.

However, introducing VAR at that stage of the competitions will require appropriate technical resources and organisational arrangements.