Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie has expressed strong frustration with the South African Football Association (SAFA) over the delayed implementation of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in the Premier Soccer League (PSL).
McKenzie revealed that he allocated R13 million in state funding to SAFA specifically to assist with the implementation of VAR. According to the Minister, he also took journalists, football administrators and members of the football fraternity to Spain and the United Kingdom to study different VAR systems and determine which approach would be most suitable for South Africa.
However, despite these efforts, McKenzie says there has been no meaningful implementation, prompting him to formally request that SAFA return the R13 million.
“I took R13 million and I took it to SAFA, and I can tell you now, that’s where I can’t do more as the Minister,” McKenzie said.
The Minister revealed that SAFA has requested a 21-day grace period to take action following his demand for the money to be returned. McKenzie admitted that he is equally frustrated by the situation, insisting that he had done everything within his authority to make VAR a reality.
McKenzie also confirmed that he has already engaged with FIFA and intends to formally write to the world football governing body after being asked to put his concerns in writing.
Despite the ongoing dispute, McKenzie remains determined to see VAR introduced in the PSL. He apologised to South African football supporters for the delays, saying he feels deeply let down by the lack of progress.
The situation now places further pressure on SAFA to explain how the allocated funds were utilised and what concrete steps will be taken during the 21-day grace period.
McKenzie, meanwhile, has made his position clear: South African football needs VAR, and he wants the technology implemented without further delays.
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