SA sports minister Gayton McKenzie has publicily annunced that VAR has been secured for the domestic league.
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Erik Tinkler believes the introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology will be a positive step for South African football, saying most coaches would welcome the system once it is implemented in the domestic game.
The Sekhukhune United head coach spoke to the media at Chatsworth Stadium on Wednesday night after his side’s 1–1 draw against Durban City.
Sekhukhune were pushed hard throughout the encounter, with the hosts using the wet conditions and difficult surface to apply sustained pressure. The visitors ultimately needed a late equaliser to rescue a point after a testing evening.
One of the major talking points of the match was officiating decisions, particularly in the first half when four offside calls were made. The incidents highlighted the ongoing debate around the need for technological assistance in South African football.
Asked about the imminent arrival of VAR in the domestic game, Tinkler said the system would likely receive strong support from coaches.
“I think it would be extremely welcomed by most coaches. So I think it’s a good thing,” said Tinkler.
Momentum behind the implementation of VAR gained traction this week when minister of sports Gayton McKenzie confirmed that government funding has been secured for the project.
McKenzie announced that R40 million has been allocated to the South African Football Association to assist with the rollout of the technology, with R20 million already paid.
The minister said he expects VAR to be operational by August, in time for the start of the new domestic season. According to McKenzie, the initial implementation will cost between R70 million and R80 million as a once-off expense, while the system is expected to cost roughly R70,000 per match thereafter.
“Some people say we don’t need VAR. How will you see death with the naked eye?” McKenzie said while defending the investment.
“Football is not waiting for South Africa. Luckily, you have a minister and a deputy minister that are not slow. And we have now made sure that everything has been done. We are ready. We’ve kept our promise of VAR.”
McKenzie also stated that the necessary financial approvals had been secured from Treasury, confirming the government has already processed the payment required to begin the rollout.
If the timeline remains on track, the introduction of VAR will mark one of the biggest officiating changes in South African football history.
Jehran Naidoo is sports reporter with focus on motorsport for Independent Media and editor of the social media channel The Clutch