Instant video replay in para taekwondo: Influence on referees’ decisions and match outcomes

The use of video-based technology in sports has enhanced decision-making during controversial actions; however, research on its application in Para Taekwondo is limited. This study aimed to describe the frequency and duration of Instant Video Replay (IVR) and its influence on referees’ decision-making across sex and weight categories at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. A total of 121 athletes (61 male, 60 female) considering 151 matches competed, generating 72 IVR requests. Variables analysed included action type (penalty or score), action outcome (decision upheld or overturned), match result, IVR duration, and time of request. The comparison between IVR variables and sex or weight divisions were examined using Fisher's exact tests with Phi coefficients, while differences in IVR duration and request time were assessed using Student's t-tests, with effect sizes calculated via Cohen's d. The IVR requests were predominantly for penalties (91%), more prevalent during eliminatory phases (69%), and decisions were overturned in 55% of cases. No significant associations were found between IVR variables and sex or weight divisions (p > 0.05). However, IVR duration was significantly longer in female bouts than in male bouts (t = 2.41; p = 0.018; Cohen's d = 0.57), suggesting that higher technical variability and borderline situations in female matches require more detailed interpretation. These findings indicate that, although IVR is relatively infrequent, it plays an important role in clarifying ambiguous situations and supporting referees’ decision-making, contributing to greater decision consistency in Paralympic combat sports.