In order to fully and professionally implement VAR technology in selected domestic competitions, the Football Federation of Macedonia has successfully begun training technical staff who will work as Replay Operators.
After a preliminary selection, eight technically educated and prepared candidates were chosen to begin the specialized training.
From June 2 to 5, they attended intensive technical and functional training at the renowned EVS Technology Center in Liege, Belgium, which is the official VAR technology provider for competitions organized by the FFM.
The training focused on practical work with EVS technology, principles of rapid reaction, synchronization with VAR and AVAR referees, as well as interventions in situations.
After the successfully completed initial phase, the training continues in Macedonia from June 5 to 18, 2025 with advanced technical sessions.
These trainings are conducted under the mentorship of two experienced and recognized VAR operators, Kirill Gorban and Alexei Korzhukov, who have practical experience in the elite leagues in Russia and Saudi Arabia, as well as in international competitions organized by FIFA. Under their guidance, the operators gain the skills necessary for impeccable technical support of the VAR process, i.e. for timely, precise and high-quality replay of key moments in matches, and the education and training will be carried out in sync with the selected VAR and AVAR referees.
The investments are an important step in establishing a professional VAR system with highly qualified staff in all aspects, from refereeing to technical support.
