Sports minister Gayton McKenzie promised that Video Assistant Referee technology was coming to South African football, and a significant step has now been taken toward making this a reality.
“We are committed to ensuring that VAR is introduced in line with Fifa regulations,” McKenzie said on Sunday. “The money is available, and the necessary training for referees has also been budgeted for. With the collaboration of Safa and the PSL.”
By Wednesday, McKenzie had returned to social media to share the advert for the VAR tender. The technology is expected to cost between R70 million and R80 million as a once-off expense, with an additional R70,000 per game. The South African Football Association is expected to cover the cost, despite its reported financial constraints.
The advert posted by McKenzie is for VAR equipment as well as training programmes for video and match officials.
“SAFA invites proposals from qualified vendors for the supply of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) equipment, the preparation of VAR training programmes, and the training of video and match officials,” the advert read.
“This initiative aims to enhance the accuracy and fairness of officiating in Premier Soccer League (PSL) matches and selected National Team matches.”
McKenzie has strongly advocated for the introduction of VAR to South African football since taking office last year.
When addressing the matter after Mamelodi Sundowns beat Kaizer Chiefs after what was perceived as a refereeing error, McKenzie said: “All football loving fans know that the time for VAR has arrived in SA football.
“We need VAR & we need it now, those meetings start now because we are not a 10th world country. I shall report back soonest after meeting SAFA & the PSL,” said the sports minister.
IOL Sport
