- DSAC confirms R82 million allocated to implement VAR in South African football
- SAFA leads the project with FIFA compliance and PSL involvement
- Possible rollout in cup competitions before full PSL adoption
Government Confirms R82 Million VAR Investment
The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system for South African football has made “significant progress,” according to the Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture (DSAC). Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie has been pushing for the technology, and government has now committed R82 million from its current budget to support the project.
The funding comes in collaboration with the South African Football Association (SAFA), which oversees refereeing in the country. In contrast to the Premier Soccer League (PSL), SAFA is spearheading the implementation of VAR and has direct authority over refereeing issues.
“This initiative aims to enhance the integrity, fairness, and overall quality of domestic competitions by addressing ongoing concerns over refereeing decisions,” the department said in its statement.
Key Milestones Already Achieved
SAFA has already published a Request for Proposals (RFP), received submissions from technology providers, and aligned the project with FIFA’s Implementation Assistance and Approval Programme (IAAP).
The association has also:
- Appointed a dedicated VAR Project Team
- Re-engaged the PSL to ensure collaboration
- Focused on transparency and compliance with FIFA standards
Where the Money Will Go
The R82 million budget will be used for:
- Developing a comprehensive project plan
- Training referees and match officials
- Stadium technology assessments
- Establishing a VAR Training Centre
- Improving stadium connectivity for smooth integration
A portion of the funds will also boost stadium safety, enabling faster emergency communication, including locating missing children during matches.
When Will VAR Arrive in South Africa?
While the department has not given a date, SAFA’s head of referees, Abdul Ebrahim, has hinted that limited VAR use in cup competitions could happen as early as this season.
“The tender process has been completed, and the tender committee needs to make a decision. It’s possible to have VAR in cup matches next season, but full league implementation will take more time,” Ebrahim told KickOff.com.
For now, South African fans can expect to see VAR introduced gradually likely starting in domestic cup competitions before full PSL integration.