Irvin Khoza Discusses VAR Implementation in South African Football: Challenges and Future Plans

Dr. Irvin Khoza, Chairman of the Premier Soccer League, has shared insights on the delay in implementing Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in South African football. Despite readiness since 2022, the process has faced several hurdles. The Chairman of the Premier Soccer League (PSL), Dr. Irvin Khoza, has addressed the long-standing issue of introducing Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in South African football. The demand for VAR has been growing among PSL clubs, but its implementation has faced significant delays.

In a media briefing at the PSL headquarters, Khoza confirmed that the league has been prepared to integrate VAR technology since 2022. Multichoice, a major broadcaster, initially offered to assist with the implementation. However, the responsibility now lies with the South African Football Association (SAFA), which oversees the referees.

“Fortunately, some months ago, we were in a meeting, a committee meeting, and we discussed this matter. They’re frustrating, you know, the training of people to man the VAR,” Khoza explained. “But we are committed to doing that [implement VAR], but it’s now off the shelf off Multichoice. Now, the association is taking it over, and they’re right because they are the owners of the referees. So we’re waiting for their signal to tell us what they want to do. At that point, we were ready.”

The delay in VAR implementation has sparked reactions among South African football fans. Many have expressed frustration over the ongoing tussle between SAFA and the PSL, which they believe is hindering progress. A social media user, Thulerq, commented, “The most troubling tone in his statement is that let them do what they think is right…. This beef of safa and psl needs to stop. This is why more people call for a fresh leadership.” Another user, zane992349331, pointed out, “Safa is responsible for the implementation not the psl.”

Concerns about the cost of implementing VAR have also been raised. RRechubro64776 noted, “South African Football Association won’t agree… They know VAR cost a lot and they won’t have enough money for themselves…”

The financial aspect of VAR is indeed a critical factor. Implementing the technology requires significant investment, not only in equipment but also in training referees and other officials to effectively use it. This investment is seen as a major hurdle, particularly in countries where football federations may have limited resources.

Despite these challenges, there is a strong push from various stakeholders within South African football for the introduction of VAR. The technology is already in use in several North African countries, including Algeria, Egypt, and Morocco, highlighting a technological gap that South African football aims to bridge.

In related news, the PSL recently announced a new sponsorship deal with Betway, a betting company, following the end of its partnership with broadcaster DSTV. This R900 million deal is expected to bring in substantial revenue, which could potentially support technological advancements like VAR in the future.