IFAB clarifies VAR rules, says Embolo's World Cup red card was incorrect

The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has issued a clarification regarding the misuse of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, specifically addressing a controversial red card incident involving Swiss striker Breel Embolo during the World Cup. IFAB explained that VAR is not authorized to issue cards to players who are not the main focus of a review, except to correct mistaken player identity.

This clarification directly pertains to the quarter-final match between Switzerland and Argentina. Embolo was shown a second yellow card, leading to his expulsion, after a VAR review. The referee initially intended to review a foul committed by Argentina's Leandro Paredes against Embolo. However, after consulting VAR, the referee rescinded the yellow card for Paredes and instead issued one to Embolo for simulation, or diving.

According to IFAB's updated protocol, this action was incorrect. The review should have been limited to the initial foul assessment. The rules stipulate that VAR can only be used to change a decision regarding mistaken identity or to review potential red card offenses like violent conduct, serious foul play, or denying an obvious goal-scoring opportunity. Issuing a card for simulation, when the player was not the primary subject of the review, falls outside these parameters. Consequently, Embolo should not have been sent off in the 74th minute, a decision that left Switzerland playing with ten men and ultimately contributed to their 3-1 loss in extra time.