VAR

Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie

Government releases funds to SAFA as VAR implementation moves closer

The long wait for the implementation of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in South African football appears to be nearing an end after the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, confirmed that money has been paid to the South African Football Association (SAFA) to begin preparations for the system’s introduction next season.

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso during the Nedbank Cup, Last 32 match between Mamelodi Sundowns and Gomora United at Loftus Versfeld on February 04, 2026 in Pretoria

Miguel Cardoso renews VAR call after alleging referee influence

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has once again called for the introduction of VAR, alleging that he has seen images of officials from rival clubs visiting referees ahead of matches.

PSL Chairman Press Conference

PSL seeks more clarity before fully participating in VAR rollout

The Premier Soccer League has acknowledged progress in the plans to introduce Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in South African football, but has indicated that key information is still outstanding before the league can fully participate in the discussion.

CAF referee during a VAR review

Victor Hlungwani applauds progress on VAR rollout in SA football

Former PSL referee Victor Hlungwani has welcomed developments towards introducing VAR in South Africa’s domestic football league.

Gayton McKenzie (Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture of South Africa) at the memorial and funeral service of broadcaster Thabiso Sikwane at 3C Ministries on September 06, 2024 in Centurion,

Public internet VAR model wins favour with South African delegation

Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie’s senior advisor, Charles Cilliers insists the public internet version of the VAR offered by Quality Media Production is best suited for South African conditions.

VAR review screen

SAFA opts for full VAR system over VAR Lite ahead of Portfolio Committee briefing

Former FIFA referee and Project Leader of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) management team, Daniel Bennett, says he will be meeting the rest of the members of his team to fast-track the process of finalising SAFA VAR plans, ahead of Tuesday’s Department of Sports, Arts and Culture parliamentary portfolio committee meeting.

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