VAR in SAFA’s hands - PSL chairman Irvin Khoza

During the announcement of Betway as the new title sponsor for the Premier Division over the next three years, Khoza was asked whether the R900-million partnership would inject money to make room for modern technology.

READ: PSL confirm Betway as new sponsors for flagship league

He confirmed initial discussions some time ago, but said motherbody SAFA wanted to take over the initiative themselves.

"I'm happy you asked that question. In December 2022, Multichoice came forward and wanted to assist with [installing] this VAR thing, and we had a test run," said Khoza.

"Unfortunately, we went to the national association at that time, there were only two people [referees] qualified to operate VAR.

"A month ago, we were in a committee meeting and discussed this matter, they are [now] fast-tracking the training of people to be able to man the VAR."

Khoza admitted there were doubts about the efficacy of VAR globally, but added the PSL are still open to the idea. 

"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," he added.

"But why take out the human element? But again, to avoid finger pointing – because there was a lot of finger pointing, 'No, that goal of Pirates was not a penalty... No, but the guy dived... No, that goal of Sundowns...' It creates conversation."

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