Social Media Divided as Government Commits R82 Million to VAR Rollout

Government Commits R82 Million to Introduce VAR in South African Football

The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) has confirmed an R82 million allocation to implement Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in South African football.

The initiative is being rolled out in collaboration with the South African Football Association (SAFA) and the Premier Soccer League (PSL).

Also Read: “Fix the Stadiums First!”: Zimbabweans Mock ZIFA for Eyeing VAR Despite Local Football Struggles

What the Funds Will Cover

According to DSAC, the investment will be used for referee training, procurement of VAR technology, stadium upgrades, and the creation of a dedicated VAR Training Centre.

The budget also includes improvements to stadium safety infrastructure, particularly in emergency communication systems.

Minister McKenzie Praises Move

Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie said the development was a major step towards aligning South African football with global standards. He commended SAFA for maintaining transparency and adhering to FIFA protocols in the process.

“The system will enhance the integrity and quality of South African football,” McKenzie stated.

Push for Fast-Tracking Amid Mixed Reactions

DSAC has urged all stakeholders to ensure the rollout is completed within the current financial year.

While the government and football authorities have hailed the move, social media has been awash with mixed reactions, with some fans welcoming the investment while others question whether the funds could have been used for more pressing needs.

Here are some of the reactions;

@MbazoMamba;

We’ve already suffered unrecoverable damage just in the beginning of the season

Please implement

@MtoloSam;

We can’t prioritise as a country

@Melchizedek1214;

Good initiative from Government. Let it be in use before the Soweto derby.

@ThoromoMedia;

Why should it be the government that funds this? How far could that money go in youth sports development

@BrilliantKhosa;

The problem with S.A government is that they think we are a developed country we can’t compete with European countries. They should have used that money for job creation

@I__am__Ohmz;

Engathi siyi khawuntri sinenkinga with prioritising, this R82 million would have helped somewhere else

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