McKenzie Confirms VAR Final Stages For Implementation

South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Gayton McKenzie, has provided an update on the implementation of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in the Premier Soccer League (PSL).

According to the minister, the process is in its final stages, with the remaining steps now in the hands of the South Africa Football Association (SAFA).

Following several questionable refereeing decisions that have impacted top-flight matches, McKenzie has consistently assured the public that the necessary funds are available to equip the league for VAR implementation.

In June 2023, SAFA sent a letter to FIFA outlining the itemized costs for the program, which include training for referees and technical staff, as well as equipment. According to SAFA’s head of referees, Abdul Ebrahim, they are awaiting a response from the world football governing body.

“We sent a letter to FIFA about our intention to implement the VAR process, and the world football governing body has confirmed receipt of the letter and will most likely respond to our correspondence anytime from now,” Ebrahim stated. “They will give us direction on the way forward.”

Victor Gomes, the chairman of the SAFA Referees Committee and a respected former referee, also confirmed that the purpose of the letter was to seek advice and inform FIFA that the association was ready to proceed with the next phase of the project.

“We have been working hard to get this project off the ground,” Gomes said. “When I was appointed the SAFA Referees Committee chair, one of my main priorities was to introduce VAR, and I am glad to say, soon this will be a reality.”

Speaking at the SA Sport Awards in Sun City on Sunday, McKenzie reaffirmed that the implementation was in its final stages.

“VAR is in its final stages of adjudication. It is coming. It is coming. The money is there. SAFA is doing the adjudication,” he said. “This is now in the final stages. Out of my hands. FIFA requires that.”

While the process seems to be moving forward, it remains uncertain if VAR will be implemented during the current PSL season, which is already underway.