Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has confirmed that his department has written a formal letter to SAFA to inquire about the progress made towards introducing the VAR system in South African football.
In September last year, the South African government allocated R82 million to assist in rolling out VAR technology across domestic competitions, working in conjunction with SAFA and the Premier Soccer League [PSL].
Urgency surrounding the implementation of VAR has intensified following a series of high-profile refereeing blunders in the early stages of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season—a troubling trend carried over from previous campaigns.
A recent midweek fixture between Orlando Pirates and AmaZulu FC highlighted the growing dissatisfaction with officiating standards in the South African elite league.
During the clash, Usuthu were denied a goal when assistant referee Kgara Mokoena flagged Mlondi Mbanjwa offside in the 34th minute, denying the KwaZulu-Natal-based outfit what appeared to be a legitimate goal.
Controversy also surrounded referee Luxolo Badi’s handling of a challenge by Usuthu forward Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya on Pirates midfielder Sihle Nduli. Badi opted for leniency despite the severity of the tackle, which forced Nduli off the pitch with a serious injury.
GAYTON MCKENZIE SET TO GIVE UPDATE ON VAR PROGRESS ON TUESDAY
Taking to his official social media platforms on Sunday, McKenzie emphasised that the recurring errors and reckless challenges on the pitch leave no room for further delay.
“We have written letters to SAFA to enquire about progress with VAR,” McKenzie stated on X [formerly Twitter] and Facebook.
“This matter has never been more urgent, judging from some of the rough tackles on players. I will give feedback on Tuesday.”
Football stakeholders and supporters now await Tuesday’s update to learn whether SAFA and the PSL have established a clear timeline for the implementation of the VAR in the South African domestic league.
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