SAFA finance committee chairperson Mxolisi Sibam revealed that the association has secured R20 million in government funding to implement VAR in South Africa.

The announcement was made following SAFA’s National Executive Committee meeting over the weekend.

“The government has been generous with us; they have given us R20 million to implement VAR,” said Sibam.

According to SAFA, preparations for the project have already been underway for the past seven months, with officials now targeting the beginning of next season for the official rollout.

“Guys who are in charge of it are targeting that by the start of next season it will be up and running,” Sibam confirmed.

The SAFA official also stressed that the funds have been ringfenced and placed in a separate account to ensure transparency and accountability.

“Money is in the bank, and I want to confirm that it is in a separate account that doesn’t include all the other transactions of SAFA,” he said.

VAR has become one of the biggest debates in the Betway Premiership in recent seasons, with referees repeatedly criticised for controversial decisions that have influenced major matches.

Sibam confirmed that SAFA will work closely with the Premier Soccer League to implement the system, but added that the technology will not be limited to PSL matches only.

Women’s football and national competitions are also expected to benefit from VAR.

“South Africa is a leading country, and we can’t be left behind when it comes to VAR,” he added.

Several African nations have already introduced VAR technology, and SAFA now believes South African football must catch up with the rest of the continent.

For local supporters tired of contentious refereeing calls, the announcement could finally signal the beginning of a long-awaited new era in South African football.

Visit MDNtv YouTube Channel for our video content