IHM Knowledge Center
What Is Video Review in Ice Hockey?
How do referees use replay in hockey, and is there something like VAR used in football?
Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: May 3, 2026
Short Answer
Video review in hockey allows officials to analyze key plays using replay footage, similar in purpose to VAR in soccer, to ensure accurate decisions.
Full Explanation
Video review is used in hockey to confirm or overturn critical decisions that are difficult to judge in real time.
Officials review footage for plays involving goals, offsides, goalie interference and puck direction.
In the NHL, many reviews are handled through a centralized Situation Room, which supports on-ice referees.
The final call is made after evaluating all available video angles.
VAR in Hockey: Is There an Equivalent?
Many fans compare hockey’s replay system to VAR (Video Assistant Referee) used in football.
While hockey does not use the term VAR, the function is very similar.
Both systems rely on video analysis to ensure fair decisions in critical moments.
However, hockey’s system is often more structured and limited to specific situations.
Key Differences Between VAR and Hockey Review
- VAR operates as an assistant system for referees in soccer
- Hockey uses direct review with on-ice officials and centralized support
- Hockey reviews are limited to defined scenarios like goals and offsides
Despite differences, both systems aim to eliminate major errors.
NHL vs IIHF Rule Differences
Both NHL and IIHF use video review to improve decision accuracy.
The NHL has a more advanced system with centralized review teams.
IIHF also uses replay, especially in international tournaments.
The goal remains the same: fairness and precision.
What Can Be Reviewed
Common review situations include:
- Whether the puck crossed the goal line
- Offside before a goal
- Goalie interference
- High sticking the puck
Not every play in hockey is reviewable.
Why These Situations Are Controversial
Video review can change game outcomes, making it one of the most debated systems in hockey.
Fans often question both the process and the final decision.
Controversy usually comes from:
- Length of reviews
- Frame-by-frame decisions
- Consistency between games
- Impact on momentum
Even correct decisions can feel controversial.
Edge Case: Inconclusive Video Evidence
A key edge case occurs when video footage does not clearly confirm or overturn a decision.
In these cases, the original on-ice call stands.
There must be clear evidence to change a ruling.
Uncertainty favors the initial decision.
IHM Signal System: How to Read the Situation
To understand video review decisions, focus on these signals:
- Evidence signal: Is there clear visual proof?
- Call signal: What was the original ruling?
- Angle signal: Are camera views conclusive?
Trigger-level rule:
If clear evidence exists, the call is overturned.
If not, the original decision stands.
IHM Insight: Why This System Is Misunderstood
Many fans believe video review guarantees perfect decisions.
In reality, it depends on camera angles and interpretation.
Not every situation can be resolved clearly.
Understanding evidence vs certainty is critical.
Mini Q&A
What is video review in hockey?
Replay used to confirm decisions.
Is there VAR in hockey?
Not by name, but video review works the same way.
What can be reviewed?
Goals, offsides and interference.
What happens if evidence is unclear?
The original call stands.
Why is video review important?
It improves accuracy.
Why This System Exists
Video review exists to reduce errors and ensure fairness in high-speed situations.
It adds an extra layer of accuracy to officiating.
Key Takeaways
- Video review checks key decisions
- Similar to VAR in purpose
- Requires clear evidence
- Limited to specific situations
- Improves fairness and accuracy