Competitions & Football Events Division
The two-day workshop featured detailed discussions on the latest advancements in VAR technology, with experts from across the globe sharing their insights on best practices in executing responsibilities as VAR Information Officers (VIOs).
A total of 56 participants, comprising 32 existing VIOs and 24 newly nominated officials, representing 23 MAs took part in the workshop, which served as an ideal opportunity to refresh and enhance their knowledge of the latest Football Technology developments ahead of the 2025/26 season.
AFC Deputy General Secretary – Football Division, Shin Man Gil, in welcoming the participants, said: “Over the past year, the use of VAR has expanded significantly. We've seen its implementation at various stages across all our club competitions, including the newly launched AFC Women’s Champions League™ and the AFC Challenge League™.
The inaugural day of the programme focused mainly on acquainting the participants with their VIO duties as well as the various Football Technology implementations undertaken by the Confederation, whilst the learnings from the 2024/25 AFC competitions season were also cast in the spotlight.
Additionally, the spectrum of learning was widened to incorporate insights from the global stage, including a session by FIFA Senior Football Technology Strategy Manager Bhaveshan Moorghen, who presented on the use of Football Technology at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 earlier this year.
The global focus continued on Day 2, with UEFA Football Technologies Specialist Paolo Zinna providing valuable insights into the operations and practices within European football.
The final day also included a panel discussion featuring the three experts from CONMEBOL, Saudi Arabian Football Federation and Korea Professional Football League who delved into a wide range of topics ranging from including organisational responsibilities and key lessons from each organisation’s Football Technology journey, to the evolution of VAR implementation and emerging opportunities to improve operational efficiency and commercial viability.
The workshop concluded with the VIOs undergoing an assessment session that tested their grasp of the key information and knowledge shared during the workshop, giving participants the opportunity to apply their knowledge through practical case studies.
Reflecting on the experience, Nathan Ratananakin from The Football Association of Thailand said: “The workshop offered us not only updated technical knowledge but also helped build a stronger network of support among VIOs across Asia.”
Successful participants will now be eligible for appointment in upcoming AFC competitions as part of the AFC’s commitment to expanding VAR operations throughout all levels of Asian football.
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