ABSTRACT
Effective audio communication between the officials that referee football matches is clearly fundamental, not least when it comes to the analysis of controversial situations. In such situations, the audio signal from the pitch serves as an additional tool to clarify aspects of the events that have occurred. Accordingly, in this chapter we shall reflect on both the communication between the officials and the testimonial nature of the audio signals, which we consider must be taken into account when conceiving and planning a comprehensive and robust VAR (Video Assistant Referee) model. As such, we shall consider in depth the basic concepts related to the organization of the audio communications in a VAR, the protocols and the signals to use, the spatial considerations and other associated issues. In addition, we will also reflect on the potential problems associated with the public release of audio signals. Thus, through the material addressed in this chapter we hope to provide ideas that might aid and support the professionals involved in developing and implementing a VAR.
