SAFA and Government Intensify Efforts to Bring VAR to Local Football
The Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation (DSAC) and the South African Football Association (SAFA) have reaffirmed their commitment to introducing Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in South African football, although several key processes still need to be completed before the system can be fully implemented.
The latest update was provided during a media briefing held at the Freedom Park Heritage Site and Museum in Pretoria, where government and football officials outlined the progress made so far and the work that remains before VAR becomes a reality in local competitions.
The briefing was attended by Deputy Minister Peace Mabe, SAFA National Executive Committee members Linda Zwane and Job Mchunu, SAFA Chief Executive Officer Lydia Monyepao, SAFA Chief Financial Officer Gronie Hluyo, SAFA Chief Medical Officer Dr Thulani Ngwenya, DSAC Director-General Dr Cynthia Khumalo and other stakeholders from the department and football administration.
While there is growing anticipation among supporters and clubs, SAFA indicated that consultations with several role-players are still underway. These engagements are expected to play a crucial role in ensuring that the technology is introduced in a sustainable and effective manner.
Speaking at the event, SAFA CEO Lydia Monyepao explained that the organisation’s vision extends beyond simply purchasing equipment. According to comments published on the SAFA website, the VAR initiative was launched in 2024 as part of a broader strategy aimed at developing match officials and modernising South African football.
“SAFA initiated the VAR Project in 2024 as a referee-development, football-modernisation, and compliance initiative, not merely an equipment-procurement exercise,” Monyepao said on the SAFA website.
She added that one of the key objectives is ensuring South African referees remain competitive at continental and international level, particularly for appointments in CAF and FIFA competitions where VAR has become a standard requirement.
As part of the implementation process, SAFA is expected to continue discussions with broadcasters, stadium operators and other stakeholders whose cooperation will be essential for the successful introduction of the technology across different competitions.
An initial proposal under consideration could see VAR being introduced on a trial basis in the ABC Motsepe League and selected cup competitions. However, any such move would require approval from the Premier Soccer League (PSL) and the relevant football authorities.
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie expressed confidence that the long-awaited project is gaining momentum and insisted that progress is already being made behind the scenes.
“VAR is not an easy thing, but I will say this to you, VAR is going to happen, and VAR is busy happening,” McKenzie said, according to the SAFA website.
The minister further revealed that discussions with FIFA form part of the next phase of the process, with SAFA and government officials seeking guidance and support as they work towards implementation.
SAFA President Dr Danny Jordaan also highlighted the broader benefits of introducing VAR, saying the technology could improve player welfare by allowing officials greater oversight of incidents that may otherwise go unnoticed during matches.
“A lot of injuries occur when the players think that the referee is not looking. So, there will be a 360-degree view of the match by the referee and VAR. This will help to protect the players and to modernise the game,” Jordaan was quoted as saying on the SAFA website.
Jordaan linked the need for VAR to South Africa’s wider ambition of helping African football reach higher levels on the global stage, arguing that modern technologies are essential for improving standards and supporting elite competition.
Despite the optimism surrounding the project, no firm timeline has yet been announced for the full rollout of VAR in South African football. For now, SAFA and government officials will continue with consultations, planning and stakeholder engagement as they work towards bringing one of football’s most influential technological advancements to local stadiums.