Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie has confirmed that his Department of Sport, Arts and Culture has allocated R82 million for the introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in South Africa’s Betway Premiership.

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For years, controversial refereeing decisions have sparked frustration among clubs, players, and fans. The pressure to modernise officiating intensified after McKenzie assumed office, as he made clear that implementing VAR would be a top priority.

Funding Secures Breakthrough

The South African Football Association (SAFA) has previously argued that financial constraints made VAR unfeasible. McKenzie’s announcement signals a major breakthrough, providing the funding needed to finally bring the technology into the local game.

“The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture is pleased to announce significant progress in the procurement and implementation of VAR in collaboration with SAFA and the Premier Soccer League (PSL),” the ministry said in a statement.

The department also highlighted completed milestones, including:

The publication of a Request for Proposals (RFP) for VAR systems.
Submissions received from multiple technology providers.
Alignment with FIFA’s Implementation Assistance and Approval Programme (IAAP).

Raising Standards in Domestic Football

Officials say the move is intended to enhance fairness, integrity, and the overall quality of South African football. The lack of VAR has long been seen as a gap compared to other leading footballing nations, with concerns that it could hinder the country’s global standing if not addressed.

McKenzie emphasised that the investment is more than just a technological upgrade. It represents a commitment to modernising the local game and restoring public confidence in officiating.

While challenges remain including costs linked to training referees and ensuring reliable logistics across multiple stadiums the allocated R82 million is viewed as a decisive step toward making VAR a reality in South African football.

If successfully implemented, South Africa will join the growing list of nations that have embraced VAR as a standard tool for improving decision-making in the sport.

Gayton McKenzie: Driving VAR into the Future

Since being sworn into office, McKenzie has consistently championed the introduction of VAR, often stressing that South African football cannot be left behind while other nations adopt modern officiating technology. His determination and the R82 million funding allocation mark a decisive step forward.