Delaying the Flag and Whistle on clear attacking situations



Explanation: Following Video Review guidelines from IFAB and the lessons learned from the 2018 FIFA World Cup, PRO officials are delaying the flag and whistle for offside when there is a clear immediate attacking situation.

Delay and Video Review Protocol

MLS Assistant Referees have shown an accuracy rate of 97% when the flag is raised, however delaying the flag and whistle until after the ball has entered the goal opens a window of opportunity for the VAR to check the accuracy of the offside decision.

**Note: Only the timing of the whistle matters for video review. The flag is just a signal until the referee blows their whistle.



Examples of Delayed Flags