South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Ms Peace Mabe, has provided an update on the ongoing situation surrounding the implementation of VAR technology in South African football.
The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) transferred upfront funding to SAFA earlier in 2026 to facilitate the rollout of VAR for the 2026/27 season.
With the new campaign underway and no progress on the implementation, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie gave SAFA 21 days to commence the project or refund the state funds.
Mabe said the department has a meeting scheduled with SAFA, where the football governing body is expected to explain the “blockage” preventing the continuation of the VAR project.
She added that the department is also waiting for SAFA to settle following the presidential elections held last month.
“Yes, the minister did put 21 days ultimatum but because of the elections and other things, I think that’s why SAFA could not focus,” said Mabe.
“But I know that we have a scheduled meeting with SAFA for them to come and present to us as to what is the blockage.
“The money is there; the minister did even show the proof of payment that money has been transferred to SAFA.
“So, we are waiting for SAFA to just settle, and they will have to come to us and of course report to the nation as to how far are they with the implementation of VAR.”