CAF to introduce VAR from group stages in major competitions

Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology will be introduced from the group stages of CAF’s club competitions, in a major shift aimed at improving officiating standards across African football.

CAF president Patrice Motsepe announced the decision following an Executive Committee meeting in Cairo, confirming that the technology will no longer be limited to the knockout rounds of the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup.

“There must be video technology in place, starting from the group stage, and I will task the Secretary-General with implementing this,” Motsepe said.

A significant change to officiating

The move marks a significant departure from the current system, where VAR is only used in the latter stages of competitions.

Under the new plan, matches in the group phase — often decisive in determining qualification — will benefit from the same level of technological support as knockout fixtures.

VAR is designed to assist referees in key match situations, including goals, penalty decisions, red cards and cases of mistaken identity, helping to reduce errors that could influence results.

The absence of VAR in earlier rounds has been a long-standing concern among clubs and fans, particularly in tightly contested group matches where crucial decisions can determine progression.

Response to growing pressure

CAF’s decision comes amid increased scrutiny of refereeing standards, especially following recent controversies in continental competitions.

Motsepe has repeatedly emphasised the need to strengthen trust in match officials, and the expansion of VAR is seen as a key step in achieving that goal.

The CAF president indicated that the organisation’s leadership is committed to ensuring consistency and fairness throughout competitions, not just in the final stages.

Implementation phase begins

Responsibility for rolling out the technology will fall to CAF’s administration, with the newly appointed Secretary General expected to oversee its implementation.

While no exact timeline has been provided, CAF is expected to work closely with technical partners to ensure that infrastructure, training and operational requirements are met across participating venues.

Introducing VAR at this stage of competitions may also present logistical challenges, particularly in ensuring that all stadiums meet the necessary technical standards.

Towards greater credibility

The decision is part of a broader effort by CAF to modernise its competitions and align them with global standards in football officiating.

By extending VAR to the group stage, CAF aims to enhance the credibility of its tournaments and reduce controversy surrounding key decisions.

For clubs competing in Africa’s premier competitions, the change offers greater assurance that critical moments will be reviewed with the highest level of accuracy.

As African football continues to evolve, the introduction of VAR at earlier stages signals CAF’s intent to raise standards — and restore confidence in the integrity of the game.