SAFA moves closer to VAR as referee training talks begin with FIFA and COSAFA

SAFA is preparing to begin training referees for Video Assistant Referee (VAR) after confirming it will meet COSAFA and FIFA tomorrow to advance the delayed project.

Chief executive Lydia Monyepao announced the development at a press conference organised by the Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture and Minister Gayton McKenzie today.

SAFA received R20 million from the ministry in March earlier this year and had promised to introduce VAR by the beginning of this season. However, the implementation has been delayed while a number of financial, technical and regulatory issues are assessed.

Monyepao said the initial introduction would involve a trial phase, with VAR tested in SAFA competitions. The proposed matches include the ABC Motsepe League national play-offs and the Hollywoodbets Super League.

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has been closely involved in discussions about the project, addressing questions over how the various stakeholders are aligned and how the system will be managed.

The PSL had also previously raised concerns about the long-term funding of VAR, including who would meet the costs once the implementation phase was complete.

McKenzie said the top-flight league had been included throughout the process, with PSL chairman Dr Irvin Khoza appointing a representative to attend the meetings.

“The PSL has been part of all the different discussions and Dr Irvin Khoza has even delegated someone to represent the PSL in our meetings,” McKenzie said.

He added that SAFA was now seeking additional backing to ensure the system could be maintained after its introduction.

“Our next phase is to get more sponsorship to sponsor the sustainability of VAR, so we’ve always had a plan. This wasn’t a dream, we’ve been telling you about a plan the whole time. VAR is not an easy thing but it will happen and it’s busy happening.”

Further checks delayed implementation

Monyepao said consultations with the stakeholders, including the PSL, had identified gaps that required SAFA to revise its original approach.

She said SAFA approved the implementation project on 09 May 2026. However, because of the scale of the expenditure, the use of public funds, FIFA compliance requirements and the long-term financial consequences of VAR, the organisation’s NEC ordered further checks through its finance committee.

A dedicated task team was subsequently appointed to review the project. Its work has included assessing compatibility with broadcast systems, revising infrastructure and connectivity requirements, and analysing supplier proposals.

The meeting with COSAFA and FIFA is intended to start the referee-training process as SAFA continues its preparations for the trial phase.