The Football Association of Finland’s VAR van

Football Association of Finland

The Football Association of Finland is the national governing body for football. As a member of FIFA, the international football federation, it is responsible for all football and futsal activities in Finland and their development.

Bringing VAR refereeing to Finland

VAR refereeing has been introduced on pitches across Europe and the world since 2016. The VAR van is the first step in introducing VAR refereeing in Finland.

2 referees and 1 VAR operator

Some stadiums have limited data connections, and matches are covered with fewer cameras. A VAR van was the natural solution instead of a separate centre.

“The VAR van is fitted out for two referees and a VAR operator, and it carries VAR cameras, the referees’ communication equipment and a pitchside VAR review area for the on-field referee.”

In summer 2024, the Football Association of Finland trained referees in VAR operations, and FIFA assessors audited the system during commissioning tests held at Helsinki Cup. The first official VAR match was the SJK–KuPS semi-final played on 21 August.

VAR van technology

The VAR system is based on the Goalsport VAR system, around which the van’s technology has been built. Video signals come from the TV broadcast’s OB truck, but the van also carries 16 camera channels as permanent equipment in case the production or stadium does not provide these feeds.

The van itself, along with its technology and interior, was also part of the delivery.