CAF to Train Referees on VAR for Upcoming Competitions

African football referees and match officials will convene in Cairo, Egypt, at the end of October 2026 for a training programme focused on the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system. This training is in preparation for the introduction of VAR at the group-stage level of the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup, set to commence in November 2026.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is implementing this initiative to improve officiating standards and incorporate technology into its major continental club competitions. The programme will emphasize the operation of VAR, including the necessary technology, procedures, and protocols for its effective use during matches.

Officials will learn to review incidents that could influence match outcomes and ensure consistent application of VAR across games. The introduction of VAR is a significant advancement in African club football, aimed at assisting referees in correcting clear errors and maintaining their authority on the pitch.