Football officials are an integral part of the game, ensuring fair play and enforcing the rules. There are several synonyms for the term "football official." Referee is the most commonly used synonym, and refers to the main official responsible for making decisions on the pitch. Assistant referees, or linesmen, work alongside the referee and assist with making calls on offside and other decisions. Fourth officials are responsible for managing substitutions and ensuring that team officials behave appropriately on the sidelines. Finally, video assistant referees (VARs) are used in many competitions to review decisions made by the on-field officials and provide additional perspective on game-changing moments.