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sAFA will trial the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system during the Nedbank Cup semi-finals in April 2026. The decision made South Africa’s first live test of the technology. Minister of Sport Gayton McKenzie and SAFA officials met to finalize suppliers, budgets, and roll-out plans.
What Happened?
SAFA announced that VAR will debut during the Nedbank Cup semi-finals next April. The association has already appointed a dedicated VAR project team. This will be the first time South African football uses the system in an official match.
Moreover, officials confirmed that former referee Daniel Bennett traveled to Spain to assess four potential suppliers. The visit forms part of the technical evaluation process.
South Africa has pushed for VAR for years, especially as the Premier League adopted it in 2019.
Official Response
Minister Gayton McKenzie reaffirmed his support for full VAR, not a reduced “VAR Lite” model.
Bennett, speaking to SABC Sport, stressed the need for the complete version:
“We need the full VAR. VAR Lite uses only four cameras. That system won’t support our league. The PSL needs full VAR.”
He added that SAFA expects intense discussions in on 18 November 2025 portfolio meeting. Pricing and budgeting remain the final hurdles before confirmation.
Community Impact
Fans say the move could increase trust in officiating. Clubs also welcome the shift, saying clear decisions reduce match-day tension.
Additionally, analysts believe full VAR could raise the PSL’s global profile. They warn, however, that delays in funding may slow the system’s expansion beyond cup fixtures.
