VAR: Zimbabwe reveals rollout date as South Africa’s long wait continues

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VAR: Zimbabwe reveals rollout date as South Africa’s long wait continues
VAR use at AFCON 2023. Photo -CAF

Zimbabwe is set to introduce Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in its domestic football, targeting the Chibuku Super Cup final in November for its first official use.

This move puts Zimbabwe ahead of neighbouring South Africa, where plans to implement VAR in the Betway Premiership have yet to materialise.

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) took a significant step forward by hosting a VAR kick-off meeting with FIFA officials in Harare on Tuesday. The initiative aims to align the country’s football competitions with modern international standards.

Zimbabwe Football Association officials and referees learn about VAR.
Zimbabwe Football Association officials and referees learn about VAR. Image: ZIFA

A comprehensive three-month programme, backed by FIFA, is scheduled to begin with referee training on October 25. However, the full deployment of VAR in competitive matches is contingent on local officials achieving the required FIFA certification.

Zimbabwe make great progress

ZIFA president Nqobile Magwizi confirmed that the procurement of VAR equipment is already in progress, with funding provided by Sakunda Holdings. The initial installation will focus on major venues, including Rufaro Stadium and the National Sports Stadium in Harare, as well as Barbourfields Stadium in Bulawayo.

“The VAR equipment for Zimbabwe is already being purchased,” Magwizi stated. “For training purposes, a consultant will also bring equipment that will be used during the training programme starting in October.”

Magwizi announced that the technology is expected to make its debut during the 2026 Chibuku Super Cup final on November 16 at Chahwanda Stadium.

“We have seen referees being suspended because of decisions not consistent with their training, but not because they are bad,” he added. “Our officials need to be capacitated and supported to grow the game.”

Zimbabwe Football Association officials and referees learn about VAR use.
Zimbabwe Football Association officials and referees learn about VAR use. Image: ZIFA

VAR back and forth in South Africa

Looking ahead, ZIFA plans to establish a complete regulatory framework for VAR’s use before the start of the 2027 season. This development contrasts sharply with the situation in South Africa, where implementation has been slow despite government support.

South Africa’s Sports Minister, Gayton McKenzie, recently stated that his department has requested an update from the South African Football Association (SAFA) on the project.

VAR in use during the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup.
VAR in use during the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

This comes after the government allocated R82 million in September of last year for a joint VAR rollout with SAFA and the Premier Soccer League (PSL).

The pressure to introduce VAR in South Africa has mounted following several controversial refereeing decisions in the early stages of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season.

<!-- Author Start -->Joel Oliver<!-- Author End -->

Joel Oliver

Author

Joel Oliver is a sports journalist covering South Africa, with 16 years in sports media and a Bachelor's Degree in Communication. Focused on football analysis and responsible gambling, his work has appeared on GOAL and Pulse Sports Kenya, and he is a regular football analyst on TV and radio.

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