SAFF introduces VAR technology for SAFF Championship 2026 semi-final & final
The remote VAR system is set to be operated from Thailand
For the first time in the history of the SAFF Championship, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system will be utilized, marking a significant milestone for football in South Asia.
Remote VAR technology will be implemented during the semi-finals and final of the ongoing Tecno SAFF Championship 2026, bringing the competition in line with modern international refereeing standards.
SAFF Championship 2026 to bring in VAR for the first time in tournament history
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The introduction of VAR has been made possible through the collaboration of the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) and the SAFF. The system is being operated by Quality, a FIFA-certified technology provider based in Spain, with its central operations in Thailand, and is renowned for delivering VAR solutions across international football competitions.
Under the remote VAR model, live match footage from the National Stadium in Dhaka will be transmitted to a centralized VAR operations hub in Thailand, where certified Video Match Officials will review incidents and assist the on-field referees in accordance with the IFAB VAR Protocol.
Decisions and recommendations from the VAR team will be communicated directly to the match officials in Dhaka.
To facilitate the operation of the system, a fully equipped Referee Review Area (RRA) and Technical Operations Team Area Monitor (TOTAM) have been installed at the National Stadium. Technical experts from Quality are working on-site to ensure the seamless transmission and operation of the VAR infrastructure throughout the matches.
Further enhancing the implementation, all selected referees and assistant referees assigned to the semi-finals and final are certified and trained in VAR procedures, ensuring the technology is applied effectively and consistently in line with international standards.
“Introduction of VAR is a groundbreaking moment for South Asian football “: Purushottam Kattel
Speaking on the historic introduction of VAR, SAFF General Secretary Purushottam Kattel described the initiative as a landmark achievement for football in the region.
“The introduction of VAR is a groundbreaking moment for South Asian football and an important step towards raising the professional standards of our competitions. We are extremely grateful to the Asian Football Confederation and the ASEAN Football Federation for their invaluable support in helping us introduce this technology to the region.”
“VAR has become an integral part of modern football, providing greater accuracy in key match decisions and reinforcing the principles of fairness, transparency, and sporting integrity. We believe this milestone will not only enhance the quality of the Tecno SAFF Championship 2026 but also pave the way for the broader adoption of advanced football technologies across South Asia.”
The implementation of VAR at the Tecno SAFF Championship 2026 represents a major advancement in the region’s football landscape, reflecting SAFF’s continued commitment to embracing global best practices and delivering a world-class competition experience for players, officials, and fans alike.
Will VAR be used in the SAFF Championship for the first time?
Yes, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system will be introduced in the SAFF Championship for the first time during the 2026 edition.
In which matches will VAR be used in the SAFF Championship 2026?
VAR will be implemented during the semi-finals and final of the Tecno SAFF Championship 2026.
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