South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has officially confirmed that the long-awaited Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system will be rolled out in the country’s top-flight football. The announcement follows the approval of a R20 million funding allocation from the National Treasury to support the implementation and operationalisation of the technology.
Speaking at a media briefing in Pretoria on Wednesday, McKenzie said the introduction of VAR marks a historic step in modernising South African football and aligning it with global standards. He emphasised that the move would enhance fairness, transparency, and professionalism across all major competitions.
“The era of controversial decisions is coming to an end. VAR will bring justice and credibility to our football, ensuring that players and fans alike can trust the outcomes on the pitch,” McKenzie said. “We have worked closely with the South African Football Association (SAFA) and the Premier Soccer League (PSL) to make this a reality.”
According to the minister, the first phase of the rollout will begin during the 2026/27 PSL season, with key stadiums in Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town being prioritised. The project will include extensive training for referees, technical staff, and broadcasters to ensure smooth adaptation.
SAFA President Danny Jordaan praised McKenzie’s decisive leadership, describing the Treasury’s backing as a major victory for the sport. “This investment demonstrates government’s belief in football’s potential to unite and uplift our nation. VAR is not just technology—it is progress,” Jordaan stated.
McKenzie also hinted that South Africa’s successful implementation could pave the way for future hosting of international tournaments. “If we are serious about bringing FIFA competitions back to our shores, we must meet the global standards, and VAR is one of them,” he added.
Football stakeholders and supporters have welcomed the announcement, expressing optimism that VAR will reduce officiating errors that have sparked controversy in past seasons. However, some have called for transparency in the procurement process and sustainable maintenance funding beyond the initial R20 million grant.
The minister assured the public that his department will enforce accountability measures and continuous performance assessments. “Every cent must bring value. This is not a vanity project—it’s an investment in integrity,” McKenzie concluded.
With Treasury’s financial commitment and government’s firm support, South African football now stands on the brink of a transformative era—one where technology, fairness, and trust finally meet on the field.