AFA evaluates semi-automated VAR for Argentine football

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) is evaluating the implementation of semi-automated VAR technology, with a primary target date for full deployment in 2027. Federico Beligoy, the National Director of Refereeing, indicated that the technology could potentially be used in pilot tests during the finals of 2026.

The semi-automated system utilizes 28 additional cameras to track player and ball positions, sending real-time alerts to the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) room to assist in offside decisions. The AFA is currently comparing proposals from two leading global technology providers to determine the best fit for local matches.

In the immediate term, Beligoy confirmed that video assistant refereeing (VAR) will be implemented starting from the round of 16 in the Copa Argentina to increase transparency during the tournament's decisive stages.