SAFA Gives Latest VAR Update - Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie Addresses Funding Concerns

Ralph Staniforth

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Last updated: 2 hours ago

Ralph Staniforth 2 hours ago

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SAFA is prioritising referee training and awaiting FIFA approval for VAR.
R20 million in government funding remains with SAFA, but more funds will be needed.
No confirmed date for VAR's PSL rollout, with significant technical and operational hurdles remaining.

SAFA Gives Latest VAR Update Gayton McKenzie

The recent MTN 8 Final between Pirates and Sundowns increased calls for VAR in the PSL (Getty Images).

The South African Football Association (SAFA) has provided an update on the introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, with Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie agreeing to leave government funding with the association.

However, questions remain over the project's costs, FIFA approval and when VAR will finally be introduced into the Premier Soccer League (PSL).

SAFA Reveal Latest VAR Plans As FIFA Talks Begin

SAFA CEO Lydia Monyepao confirmed that the association was prioritising referee training and certification before introducing VAR. SAFA was scheduled to engage FIFA on 15 October to seek approval to begin training, with the certification process expected to take four to six months.

Eight South African referees have already received VAR training through COSAFA, although only Abongile Tom, Luxolo Badi and Akhona Makalima were fully approved as VAR and assistant VAR officials. SAFA is also planning controlled trials in selected competitions during 2027, potentially including the Hollywoodbets Super League, ABC Motsepe League playoffs and Nedbank Cup.

McKenzie Allows SAFA To Keep R20 Million As Funding Questions Remain

McKenzie had previously expressed frustration over the slow progress and threatened to withdraw government funding. Following discussions with SAFA, however, the minister agreed to leave the R20 million allocation with the association while implementation plans are finalised.

The funding remains unspent in a dedicated account, alongside approximately R570,000 in accrued interest. SAFA has outlined a three-year implementation budget of R54.7 million, meaning additional funding will be needed to cover the projected costs.

PSL Rollout Still Faces Technical And Financial Hurdles

Despite the latest progress, VAR will not be introduced into the Betway Premiership immediately, as SAFA still needs to resolve technical, procurement and operational requirements alongside FIFA approval. The association plans to conduct controlled trials before considering a wider rollout.

The PSL, broadcasters and stadium operators will also play an important role in ensuring the necessary camera coverage and infrastructure are available. While the latest developments represent progress, an official date for VAR's introduction into South Africa's top-flight league remains unconfirmed.

Ralph Staniforth is a South African sports journalist, editor and betting writer who has worked in sports media since 2012.

With a background in Sports Science, he has covered a wide range of sports and interviewed leading players and coaches across South African rugby, cricket and football.

His sports betting work covers both South African and international markets, combining his knowledge of sport with extensive experience analysing fixtures, teams, form and betting markets.

Ralph specialises in football and rugby, while also covering cricket, tennis and golf. His work includes match previews, betting tips, betting guides and broader analysis of the sports betting industry.

You can find more from Ralph at Muckrack and LinkedIn.