Chikoya Explains Why Zimbabwe Is Moving Ahead of South Africa on VAR Technology

Former Orlando Pirates defender Innocent Chikoya has offered his perspective on why Zimbabwe appears to be moving ahead of South Africa in the introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, with the system expected to make its debut in Zimbabwean football later this month.

Chikoya’s comments have drawn attention to the differences in how the two neighbouring countries are approaching the adoption of modern officiating technology, particularly given South Africa’s established position in African football.

VAR is designed to assist match officials in reviewing important decisions involving goals, penalties, direct red cards and cases of mistaken identity. The technology allows referees to reconsider potentially controversial incidents using video footage and communication with assistant officials.

Zimbabwe’s preparations to introduce the system represent an important development for its domestic football, as the country looks to improve officiating standards and reduce errors that could influence match results.

Chikoya believes there are reasons behind Zimbabwe’s progress and South Africa’s apparent delay, suggesting that the difference may be connected to the willingness and commitment required to implement the technology.

South Africa’s Premier Soccer League is one of the continent’s most established competitions, with significant financial resources and infrastructure. However, introducing VAR requires more than financial investment.

The process involves acquiring specialised equipment, training match officials, preparing stadium infrastructure and establishing operational procedures to ensure the system functions effectively.

Zimbabwe’s planned introduction has therefore raised questions about why South Africa has yet to make similar progress in implementing the technology across its domestic competitions.

For South African football supporters, VAR remains an important topic, particularly because controversial refereeing decisions frequently generate debate during league and cup matches.

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe’s expected debut could provide an opportunity to assess how effectively the technology works in its football environment.

Chikoya’s remarks have added another dimension to the discussion about modernising football officiating across Southern Africa.

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