The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) has announced an allocation of R82 million to fund the introduction of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system in South African football. The move, made in partnership with the South African Football Association (SAFA) and the Premier Soccer League (PSL), is expected to transform officiating standards in the country’s top domestic competitions.
The Department confirmed that the investment will cover technology procurement, referee and official training, stadium assessments, and the establishment of a dedicated VAR Training Centre. Part of the budget has also been earmarked for upgrading stadium connectivity, a measure that will not only ensure smooth VAR operations but also strengthen stadium safety protocols such as emergency communication systems.
SAFA has already made strides in the rollout, publishing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for VAR technology, receiving responses from providers, and aligning the project with FIFA’s Implementation Assistance and Approval Programme (IAAP). A dedicated VAR Project Team has been appointed, with renewed collaboration from the PSL.
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, welcomed the progress and emphasised the importance of accountability and compliance.
“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,” McKenzie said.
The Minister added that South African football cannot afford to fall behind global standards, particularly as controversial refereeing decisions continue to stir fan dissatisfaction.
The DSAC urged stakeholders to fast-track implementation so that the allocated funds are effectively utilised within the current financial year.
This investment marks a major step in the Government of National Unity’s vision of raising South African football to international levels, while instilling fairness and inspiring a “nation of winners.”