Spain’s F League to introduce ‘low-cost VAR’ from 2025/26 season
Spain’s top women’s football league, Liga F, will feature video assistant technology for the first time next season, using a Football Video Support (FVS) system a cost-effective alternative to traditional VAR. The announcement came on Friday (8) after years of calls for greater officiating support in the competition.
How the FVS Works
The FVS system follows the four main principles of VAR goal/no goal, penalties, offsides, and player identification but uses just six cameras instead of the usual network of many more. Unlike standard VAR, reviews will only occur if requested by a team, which will have two challenges per match.
If a challenge is successful, the team retains its two remaining requests. However, with fewer cameras, some plays may remain inconclusive, and in such cases, the referee’s original decision will stand. Coaches will communicate review requests directly to the fourth official.
A Long-Awaited Step for Liga F
Until now, Liga F did not use any video review system not even during the Copa de la Reina. The introduction of FVS marks a milestone for the competition, which features powerhouse clubs like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Atlético de Madrid.
Season Kick-Off
The 2025/26 Liga F season begins 31 August with three major opening fixtures: Barcelona vs. Alhama, Dux Logroño vs. Real Madrid, and Espanyol vs. Atlético de Madrid. Match times are yet to be confirmed. The league offers three spots in the Women’s Champions League — two for the group stage and one for the play-off round.
