Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie says an official announcement regarding the introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in South African football will be made within the next few days.
His remarks come after the latest Soweto Derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, which ended in a dominant 3-0 victory for the Buccaneers.
While Pirates celebrated a convincing win, the match was not without controversy. Just before half-time, Amakhosi had a strong penalty appeal waved away after Pirates defender Deon Hotto appeared to clip Chiefs striker Flávio Silva inside the box.
Gayton gives VAR update
Replays suggested that the Namibian international may have made slight contact with the ball before bringing down Silva, a decision that reignited debate around the urgent need for VAR in the Premier Soccer League.
Taking to social media on Sunday, McKenzie congratulated Pirates on their victory but also reiterated that a VAR announcement is imminent.
“Congratulations Orlando Pirates, congratulations to PSL and supporters of both clubs. VAR announcement shall be made within 7 days,” Gayton wrote.
Calls for the implementation of VAR have grown louder over the past year, with supporters citing inconsistent and poor refereeing decisions across the league.
McKenzie previously promised that the technology would be introduced by April 2025 but later acknowledged that the system was costly and would require sponsorship backing.
His latest statement, however, was met with mixed reactions from fans, particularly in the wake of the heated derby encounter.
One user, @ZuluNation_Ngid, expressed frustration: “You said we will have VAR this season. I now believe all politicians are liars. What did you lie for? Couldn’t you wait for better assessments before speaking? I’m tired of the lies.”
Chiefs fans want Gayton McKenzie to implement VAR asap
Another supporter, @joyLethabo8, simply wrote: “VAR would have changed a lot yesterday.”
Meanwhile, @PaballoMaz90937 questioned the timing of the minister’s remarks: “Minister, just after Pirates won and all you can think of is video assistant referee. Why? You are insinuating something and Pirates supporters won’t take it nicely.”
Others directed criticism at football authorities for delays in implementing the system.
As pressure mounts from supporters and stakeholders alike, the coming days could prove crucial in determining whether VAR will finally become a reality in South African football.
All eyes will be on Gayton McKenzie in the coming days as fans expect the official implementation of VAR in PSL.