The South African government has allocated R82 million for the implementation of the Video Assistant Referee [VAR] in the country, in collaboration with SAFA and the PSL.
The recent drive to introduce VAR in the South African elite league comes after a growing number of questionable calls by match officials in the Betway Premiership and domestic cup competitions.
The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, is confident that the introduction of VAR in Mzansi will reduce controversial referee decisions in matches.
The Sport, Arts and Culture department emphasised that this investment reflects the Government of National Unity’s dedication to raising South African football to global standards.
GAYTON MCKENZIE ON THE VAR IMPLEMENTATION PROGRESS
Minister McKenzie expressed his anticipation for the implementation of the VAR system, citing the continuous occurrence of dubious calls made by referees.
“We commend SAFA’s dedication to this process and their prioritisation of transparency and FIFA compliance. These measures will undoubtedly contribute to the successful rollout of VAR, enhancing the integrity and quality of our domestic competitions,” said McKenzie via a statement on Thursday.
“The nation is eagerly awaiting the delivery of this system, especially as we continue to see questionable decisions by referees during matches. The Department remains fully supportive and looks forward to continued collaboration with SAFA and the PSL.”
THE SPORT, ARTS AND CULTURE DEPARTMENT OFFICIAL STATEMENT ON R82 MILLION VAR ALLOCATION
“The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture [DSAC] is pleased to announce significant progress in the procurement and implementation of the Video Assistant Referee [VAR] system for South African football, in close collaboration with the South African Football Association [SAFA] and the Premier Soccer League [PSL].
“This initiative aims to enhance the integrity, fairness, and overall quality of domestic competitions by addressing ongoing concerns over refereeing decisions that have led to fan dissatisfaction and which stand to impact South Africa’s future standing among footballing nations if VAR is not adopted. Following SAFA’s recent update on the project to the Department, the following key milestones have been achieved to date. These include the publication of a Request for Proposals [RFP] for VAR technology, the receipt of responses from potential providers. Also, alignment with FIFA’s Implementation Assistance and Approval Programme [|AAP].
SAFA ENGAGE PSL FOR COLLABORATIVE ROLLOUT
“SAFA’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and adherence to FIFA’s requirements has been exemplary, with a strong focus on appointing a dedicated VAR Project Team and re-engaging the PSL to ensure a collaborative rollout. The Department has allocated R82 million from its current budget specifically for the VAR project. This funding will enable the swift development of a comprehensive project plan, training programmes for referees and officials. Also, Technology selection, stadium assessments, and the establishment of a VAR Training Centre. A portion of the budget will be dedicated to providing reliable connectivity at relevant stadiums. This will ensure seamless integration of the VAR system while also enhancing overall stadium safety. For instance, by facilitating better communication in emergencies, such as locating missing children.
“Inspiring a Nation of Winners The Department urges all stakeholders to proceed with urgency to ensure this allocation is utilised effectively within the current financial year, paving the way for VAR’s successful introduction in South African leagues. This investment underscores the Government of National Unity’s commitment to elevating South African football to international standards, inspiring a nation of winners through innovation and excellence in the field.”
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