VAR comes to Uganda: Fans to witness high-tech officiating at CHAN 2024
For the first time ever, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system will be used on Ugandan soil, debuting at the CHAN 2024 matches hosted at Mandela National Sports Complex.
Technicians at work at Namboole Stadium. PHOTO: Silvano Kibuuka
By Silvano Kibuuka
Journalists @New Vision
It’s official. What football fans have long seen on screens is now part of Uganda’s matchday reality.
For the first time ever, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system will be used on Ugandan soil, debuting at the CHAN 2024 matches hosted at Mandela National Sports Complex.
The system, approved by FIFA after satisfying IAAP requirements, allows referees to review match footage when faced with crucial calls: goal or no goal, penalty decisions, red card offences, and mistaken identity.
VAR operates under strict guidelines and is only activated for clear and obvious errors or serious missed incidents, bringing fairness and clarity to high-stakes moments.
CHAN2024 officially kicks off in Tanzania, with hosts Burkina Faso meeting Burkina Faso in a Group B showdown at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium. Meanwhile, Uganda’s Cranes begin their campaign in Group C on Sunday at 8:00 pm, facing off against Algeria.
Ugandan fans won’t just watch history unfold; they’ll be part of a global standard in match officiating.