Minister McKenzie Defends VAR Delays in the PSL

South Africa’s Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie has urged patience regarding the delayed implementation of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in the Betway Premiership, clarifying that the rollout is a complex technical process.

Speaking today, 18 February 2026, McKenzie pushed back against criticism over missed deadlines, famously stating, “VAR is not like a loaf of bread, where you give money and get it.”

Despite initial promises that the technology would debut this season, McKenzie confirmed it is unlikely to appear until the 2026/27 campaign. “There is no league in the world which brings VAR in the middle of the season,” he explained, noting that introducing it mid-stream would compromise competitive integrity.

The Minister assured the public that significant progress is being made behind the scenes. He revealed that a specialized service provider has been appointed and that a team of referees and officials was recently sent to Spain for intensive training.

To finalize the infrastructure, McKenzie confirmed, “This week, we will be transferring the rest of the money for SAFA (South African Football Association) to get VAR.”

While the wait continues, the Department of Sport says that it remains committed to ensuring South African football finally meets international officiating standards by next season.