SAFA puts referee training ahead of VAR rollout

The South African Football Association (SAFA) has placed greater emphasis on refining referee skills through targeted training before introducing video assistant referee (VAR) technology to the country's football leagues. SAFA's president, Danny Jordaan, and Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie held a meeting in Pretoria to discuss the project's progress, which has been delayed by technical, financial, and stakeholder challenges.

The initiative, begun in 2024, aims to enhance local match officials' proficiency in VAR protocols and prepare them for international competitions. Despite funding constraints, SAFA received R20 million from the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, which SAFA views as a significant advancement. However, achieving VAR implementation involves more than simply procuring equipment; it requires FIFA approval, certified referees, compatible broadcasting, reliable connectivity, adequate camera coverage, and ongoing financial support.

SAFA identified practical issues during a September task team report, including alignment with the National Soccer League and broadcasters. The association expects the training and certification process to take six months, involving theoretical instruction, simulator exercises, and practical field training. The next step for SAFA is to conduct controlled trials in various domestic competitions to test the technology's practical application before a wider rollout.