VAR rollout in South Africa gets boost after R82 million allocation

Implementation of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in the PSL looks to be a reality now after the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture allocated R82 million towards it.

Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie has been one of the most vocal figures on the need to have VAR in the PSL to correct the numerous refereeing mistakes and he has now put money where his mouth is.

The department confirmed the allocation of the R82 million from its current budget and it will be used in partnership with SAFA and the PSL to help put in place the necessary infrastructure for the VAR rollout in the near future.

A statement from the department says the money will cover costs for the development of a project plan, training programmes for referees and officials, technology procurement, stadium assessments as well as the creation of a dedicated VAR Training Centre.   

Money allocated but not time to celebrate yet…

Part of the allocation will go to improving connectivity at stadiums to enable them to support VAR operations as well as strengthening safety and communication systems.

SAFA already confirmed the publication of a Request for Proposal (RFP) for VAR technology, and received responses from two service providers, while it has also appointed a VAR Project Team and re-engaged the PSL to coordinate the system’s rollout.

“We commend SAFA’s dedication to this process and their prioritisation of transparency and FIFA compliance. These measures will contribute to the rollout of VAR, enhancing the integrity and quality of domestic competitions,” said McKenzie, who is keen to see the project rolled out in the current financial year.

What has been halting VAR implementation?

In an interview with Kick Off in June, SAFA head of refereeing department Abdul Ebrahim cast doubts on VAR implementation this season but remained optimistic that the necessary funding would be availed.

“The VAR was not tested in any South African matches; at the moment, it remains exactly where it was—nothing has moved,” Ebrahim said at the time.

“The government has promised assistance, but we haven't heard anything from them, so everyone is still waiting for Minister McKenzie and his department. As far as refereeing is concerned, we are ready, but beyond that, there is nothing more we can add.”

McKenzie has now acted and it remains to be seen how soon the technology will be rolled out in Mzansi after Ebrahim said VAR can only be implemented in phases in South Africa given it will need a lot of training, hinting at having it only in cup games or in selected PSL matches.