NO MORE CHEATING: Dr Irvin Khoza Exposes SAFA’s Secret Plan for PSL Matches

Dr Irvin Khoza Backs VAR Introduction as PSL Declares Readiness for Major Officiating Change

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has thrown its weight behind the long-awaited introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in South African football, with chairman Dr Irvin Khoza confirming that the league is ready to embrace the system.

The development comes amid growing frustration among supporters, players and football stakeholders over controversial refereeing decisions that continue to dominate discussions in the Betway Premiership.

South African football has experienced several high-profile officiating controversies, with the recent Soweto Derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs once again highlighting the pressure placed on match officials. Consequently, calls for technological assistance have become increasingly louder.

Speaking during South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s visit to the PSL offices, Khoza provided an important update regarding the league’s position on VAR.

The experienced football administrator explained that the introduction of the technology falls under the responsibility of the South African Football Association (SAFA), rather than the PSL.

According to Khoza, discussions about bringing VAR to South African football date back to 2009, when the league initially explored the possibility before the responsibility was transferred to SAFA.

He indicated that the association currently has a committee working on the project and that the PSL is waiting for feedback regarding its progress.

Khoza made it clear that the league supports the initiative and wants the technology introduced, provided the necessary arrangements are properly established.

“We are supporting it. We want it at all costs on all sides. It must work, but it takes away the human factor of people talking and discussing,” Khoza explained.

He further emphasised the league’s willingness to embrace the proposed changes, declaring that the PSL is ready for VAR.

However, introducing the technology will require careful planning, including referee training, suitable infrastructure, broadcasting arrangements and sustainable funding.

Recent updates from SAFA chief executive officer Lydia Monyepao indicated that testing could be targeted towards the end of the 2026/27 season, initially involving selected competitions and playoff matches.

This suggests that supporters may still have to wait before seeing VAR regularly used in the country’s top-flight competition.

For South African football enthusiasts, Khoza’s latest comments represent an encouraging development. While the technology will not eliminate every refereeing controversy, its introduction could improve decision-making and strengthen confidence in match officiating.

Ultimately, the responsibility now rests on SAFA and the relevant stakeholders to turn years of discussions into reality.

South African football supporters will be watching closely as the country moves towards what could become a significant new chapter in the history of the PSL.

Source https://x.com/i/status/2117618049222119806

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