South African football legend Jomo Sono has expressed concerns that introducing VAR locally will not be successful.
VAR is a system that uses video technology to help referees make more accurate decisions. It has been introduced in many top leagues worldwide, including the English Premier League and La Liga.
However, Sono believes that VAR will not work in South Africa because of the potential for fan violence.
“Looking at the [DStv Premiership] Premier League, some of the decisions [are questionable]. You definitely need VAR,” he said.
“But I don’t know if here in South Africa [you use VAR] and change some decisions the match will end [well]. That VAR screen will be damaged. It won’t VAR because they will want VAR, not the referee.”
Sono’s concerns are echoed by many other South African football fans. Recently, there have been several incidents of fan violence at Kaizer Chiefs’ matches. In two notable cases, Amakhosi fans threw objects at their coach, registering their displeasure.
VAR WON’T WORK WITH ‘TWO’ SOUTH AFRICAN TEAMS
He warns that while it may work with 14 teams in the local league, it won’t work with two that he refused to mention. It is thought that he was referring to Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, who command massive fan bases.
“I don’t want to be controversial, but it won’t work here. Maybe it might not work for two teams. They will break it. Bring VAR and say it’s a penalty…you will see. They should not bring VAR.”
The PSL has said that it is committed to combating fan violence. However, it remains to be seen whether VAR can be introduced successfully in South Africa in the current climate.
In addition to the concerns about fan violence, other challenges would need to be addressed before VAR could be introduced in South Africa. For example, the country would need to invest in new technology and training for referees.
It is, therefore, unclear when or if VAR will be introduced in South Africa. However, the concerns raised by Sono and other football fans are valid and will need to be addressed before any decision is made.
In the meantime, South African football fans will have to continue to hope that referees make the right decisions on the pitch.
RELATED STORY: Eric Tinkler amplifies VAR calls after Pirates’ controversial goal
