R95 Million For VAR: Gayton McKenzie Makes A Huge Announcement That Could Change SA Football

Gayton McKenzie Makes Major VAR Funding Promise As South African Football Awaits Long-Delayed Technology

South African football supporters could be moving closer to seeing Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology introduced into domestic competitions, with Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie continuing to push for the system despite financial and operational challenges surrounding its implementation.

McKenzie has repeatedly expressed his commitment to helping the South African Football Association (SAFA) bring VAR to local football, arguing that the responsibility should not rest with the association alone. His latest remarks, as supplied, indicate that government is prepared to work with SAFA, sponsors and other football stakeholders to secure the necessary funding.

The minister stressed that South African football deserves investment because of its importance to the country and the millions of supporters who follow the game.

He said government was willing to contribute a substantial portion of the funding, alongside sponsorships, SAFA and people who want to see the sport improve.

McKenzie also emphasised the need for urgency, saying that discussions with SAFA were expected to take place and that the project should move beyond promises into practical implementation.

The proposed introduction of VAR has become an important issue in South African football, particularly following repeated controversies surrounding refereeing decisions in the Premier Soccer League (PSL). Several matches have been affected by disputed goals, penalty decisions and offside calls, leaving supporters and clubs demanding greater consistency and accountability.

However, the project has experienced delays despite government support. In March 2026, the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture confirmed that R20 million had been transferred to SAFA to support the initiative. The money was intended to help advance the implementation process, but the technology was not ready for the beginning of the 2026/27 domestic season as initially anticipated.

In October, SAFA chief executive Lydia Monyepao explained that the project involved more than purchasing equipment. FIFA approval, referee training, broadcaster compatibility, reliable connectivity, camera coverage, procurement requirements and long-term maintenance all needed to be addressed.

SAFA subsequently indicated that its immediate priority was referee development and preparations for controlled trials. Competitions being considered include the Hollywoodbets Super League, ABC Motsepe League play-offs and suitable cup tournaments, potentially including the Nedbank Cup in 2027, subject to the necessary approvals and agreements.

The financial figures surrounding the project also require careful distinction. Government previously announced an allocation of R82 million in September 2025, while R20 million was transferred as the initial funding tranche in 2026. Earlier reports placed implementation estimates in the region of R70 million to R90 million, but the claim that VAR will cost R95 million every year has not been independently established by the sources reviewed.

For McKenzie, the bigger objective is to strengthen the credibility of South African football and bring local competitions closer to international standards.

Nevertheless, supporters will want to see clear deadlines, transparent spending and measurable progress before celebrating the arrival of the technology.

If successfully introduced, VAR could help officials review key match incidents and reduce certain avoidable errors. It will not eliminate every controversial decision, but it could provide another important layer of accountability.

Source;https://www.facebook.com/100084632927500/posts/1124355997062154/?app=fbl

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