Taking place from February 2 to 6, the VMOs were assessed through a comprehensive programme combining theoretical instruction and thorough evaluations, involving the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) simulator and live match situations.

 

Over the five-day programme, participants were scrutinised on their capabilities with a specific focus on core VAR competencies, including the examination of match incidents, intervention thresholds and camera angle selection, while also reinforcing the importance of maintaining composure and clarity when making decisions under pressure.

The opening day set the tone with a video test and match incident assessments, followed by lectures on best practices and the latest updates in VAR technology. The officials then took part in multiple VAR simulator sessions, comprising both individual and group exercises, which allowed instructors to closely assess key tenets such as technical understanding, application of VAR protocols and proficiency in the Laws of the Game.

 

Designed to assess participants’ ability to follow established procedures, communicate effectively within a team, and deliver accurate and consistent decisions, the curriculum featured thorough evaluations of the referees’ performances during VAR simulator sessions in the classroom and Mobile VAR on the field over the course of the week.

 

On the final day, participants engaged in a comprehensive feedback session, providing an opportunity to reflect on the course while also highlighting operational challenges faced within their respective Member Associations, further underlining the AFC’s determination to provide tailored support to its members.