Which technology was first used at the FIFA World Cup during the 2018 tournament?

Video assistant referee technology was first used at the FIFA World Cup during the 2018 tournament.

FIFA approved the use of video assistant referees, commonly called VAR, for the finals in Russia. The system allowed a video team to review possible clear and obvious errors involving goals, penalty decisions, direct red cards and mistaken identity.

VAR did not replace the referee. Instead, the video assistant could recommend a review, after which the referee could inspect replay footage at a pitch-side monitor or accept the information provided. The process was designed for major incidents rather than routine decisions.

Goal-line technology had already been used at the 2014 World Cup, so it is a common mix-up. VAR’s debut attracted debate about delays and consistency, but it became a permanent part of the competition’s officiating framework.