Overview
- The FA confirms there will be no VAR or semi-automated offside in the third round and the immediate next phase.
- VAR will be used for every tie from the fifth round through the quarter-finals, semi-finals and final.
- Semi-automated offside will operate only from the fifth round at Premier League stadiums due to camera and infrastructure requirements.
- Goal-line technology is in place this weekend for matches at Premier League and Championship grounds.
- The phased plan reflects infrastructure limits, a shortage of trained VAR officials and licensing constraints, with high-profile ties such as Manchester United v Brighton proceeding without video reviews.