The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture has officially moved to modernise South African football. Minister Gayton McKenzie confirmed that R82 million in funding has been transferred to SAFA. This capital is specifically dedicated to the rollout of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology.
While the money is now in the bank, fans will need to remain patient. Victor Gomes, Chairman of the Referees’ Committee, clarified the timeline for this transition. He noted that the technical team has been working on this project since May 2023.
Implementing VAR is a complex process. It is not a product you simply buy and use immediately. The association must follow strict technical and internal procedures.
The Road to 2027
Training is the most critical phase of this project. Gomes explained that referees require at least one year of specialized preparation. This ensures that the technology effectively enhances the integrity of the game.
The current goal is to have the system ready for the 2027 Nedbank Cup final. This move aims to elevate the PSL’s officiating standards. Major clubs like Mamelodi Sundowns FC and Orlando Pirates often participate in high-stakes matches where review technology is vital.
Top players, including Ronwen Williams and Themba Zwane, operate in a league regarded as the best on the continent commercially. The introduction of VAR is seen as a necessary step to match that commercial success with technical accuracy.
According to Soccer Laduma, the financial hurdle has finally been cleared. Now, the focus shifts to the human element and technical execution. The process is well within the established timelines.
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