South Africa Moves Forward With VAR: Training and Tech Under Review
The South African Football Association’s Referees Department and the VAR Project Team have moved to address rising public interest surrounding the introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in local football.
SAFA confirmed that the VAR rollout remains in its early planning phase, with technical assessments, procurement processes and stakeholder alignment currently underway. A dedicated project team — the only authorised body to issue official updates — has been appointed to oversee implementation, infrastructure, supplier evaluation and referee training.
The VAR team has not yet held formal media briefings, and SAFA has urged the public to rely solely on official communication channels for accurate information.
VAR trial set for Nedbank Cup semi-finals
South Africa is expected to test the system for the first time during the Nedbank Cup semi-finals in April 2026. VAR project lead Daniel Bennett recently travelled to Spain to assess four potential technology suppliers. The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture has already allocated R82 million towards the project.
Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie has advocated for a full VAR system rather than the cheaper “VAR Lite”, which uses only four cameras. Bennett echoed this view, stressing that Lite would not meet Premier Soccer League requirements.
Training and consistency key
Former PSL referee Dr Errol Sweeney warned that South Africa must avoid the high-profile inconsistencies seen in the English Premier League.
He emphasised that VAR must assist — not replace — the referee, saying the success of the system will depend heavily on proper training:
“VAR is only an assistant. The final decision still lies with the referee,” Sweeney told Soccer Laduma. “England continues to struggle, but Scotland has shown it can work. It all comes down to the quality and preparation of the people operating the system.”
SAFA’s VAR committee aims to finalise a supplier this season and hopes to fully implement VAR in the PSL from the 2026/27 campaign.