In a bid to enhance the standard of local football and officiating, the Department of Sport has allocated R82 million from its current budget specifically for the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) project in the Betway Premiership.
The department said the move is a significant progress in the procurement and implementation of the VAR system for local 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,” said the department spokesperson, Stacey-Lee Khojane.
According to the department, key milestones have been achieved to date, following SAFA’s recent update on the project to the department.
“These include the publication of a Request for Proposals (RFP) for VAR technology, the receipt of responses from potential providers, and alignment with FIFA’s Implementation Assistance and Approval Programme (IAAP).
“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,” explained Khojane.
Furthermore, the spokesperson said the fund will enable the swift development of a comprehensive project plan, training programmes for referees and officials, technology selection, stadium assessments, and the establishment of a VAR Training Centre.
A portion of the budget will provide reliable connectivity at relevant stadiums, ensuring seamless integration of the VAR system while also enhancing overall stadium safety.
Meanwhile, minister Gayton McKenzie, has welcomed the allocation.
“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.
“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,” said McKenzie.
