Video Assistant Referee decisions have once again become one of the biggest talking points of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with several rulings dividing players, coaches and supporters.
From Lionel Messi avoiding a red card to Folarin Balogun’s overturned dismissal and France’s rejected penalty appeal involving Kylian Mbappé, VAR has played a decisive role throughout the tournament.
According to Planet Football, the most controversial incidents include:
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- Argentina vs Egypt
- England vs Ghana
- Brazil vs Scotland
- Colombia vs Portugal
- Ecuador vs Germany
- Germany vs Paraguay
- Portugal vs Croatia
- France vs Senegal
- USA vs Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Argentina vs Algeria
Messi’s challenge on Algeria’s Aissa Mandi topped the rankings after VAR declined to recommend an on-field review despite widespread calls for a red card.
Balogun’s sending-off, which was later overturned on appeal, ranked second, while France’s denied penalty against Senegal completed the top three.
With the tournament approaching its conclusion, VAR continues to generate debate despite FIFA’s efforts to improve consistency and accuracy through updated officiating protocols.
