Football Association of Thailand Announces Limited VAR Usage for Thai League 2

The Football Association of Thailand (FA Thailand) has officially announced a strategic adjustment regarding the use of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in the Thai League 2. According to a report by Matichon Online on September 4, 2026, the association will restrict the deployment of VAR to only the final five matches of the regular season and the subsequent play-off rounds.

This decision is primarily driven by the need to reduce operational expenses associated with the technology. While VAR has become a standard expectation in top-tier professional football, the costs involved in implementing it across all matches in the second division have necessitated this selective approach.

For residents and football enthusiasts in Thailand, this update clarifies the standard of officiating expected during the most critical stages of the league. While the majority of the season will proceed without VAR, the introduction of the technology for the season's climax ensures that high-stakes matches will benefit from enhanced review capabilities. At this stage, it remains to be confirmed whether the association plans to expand VAR coverage in future seasons should financial conditions improve or if this limited model will remain the standard for the second division moving forward.