The league chairman is determined to help Safa in setting up the technology that will increase fairness in the top-tier.
The VAR has been the subject of discussion in the Premier Soccer League owing to controversial calls that have seen teams losing crucial matches.
On Wednesday, July 24, PSL announced betting firm Betway will be the title sponsor from the 2024/25 season to the tune of R900 million for the next three years. The new deal means the South African top-flight division will remain among the best in Africa, and best players will most definitely be interested in playing there.
Morocco and Egypt have been using the VAR to reduce human error in the game, and Mzansi is determined to follow suit.
Khoza explains why implementation has taken long
After the sponsorship announcement, PSL chairman Irvin Khoza revealed why the new technology has not yet been implemented in the country.
“In December 2022, Multichoice came forward and wanted to assist with [installing] this VAR thing, and we had a test run,” the 76-year-old told the media.
“Unfortunately, when we went to the national association at that time, there were only two [referees] qualified to operate VAR.
“A month ago, we were in a committee meeting and discussed this matter, they are fast-tracking the training of people to be able to man the VAR.
VAR meant to sanitize the game despite doubts
The veteran administrator feels the introduction of the new technology might affect the natural flow of the game especially in big moments, but argues it is necessary to ensure there is fair play.
“I don't know, after watching the Euros, whether the VAR is attractive. But we want to go there to assist because people are now saying it kills the excitement, and Blatter was the one who was strongly against it,” the Orlando Pirated chairman added.
“Why take out the human element? But again, to avoid finger pointing… – ‘No, that was a Pirates goal, that Pirates [incident] was not a penalty, no, but the guy dived, no, that goal of Sundowns…' It creates conversation.”
The 2024/25 Premier Soccer League season starts on Saturday, August 3.
