SAFA Meets FIFA to Discuss VAR Implementation

The football association is shortlisting suppliers to bring video assistance to South African matches.

Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Soccer

Expressive editorial sports illustration of a referee on a pitch, conveying the precision of video assistant referee technology in South African football. — The South African Football Association has narrowed its search for a technology provider to implement VAR across its professional football competitions. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should sports associations prioritize testing new technology in local competitions before full national league deployment?

South African Football Association officials met with COSAFA and FIFA representatives to coordinate the rollout of Video Assistant Referee technology. SAFA has narrowed down its search for a technology supplier after receiving 11 initial bids.

Why it matters

Implementing VAR is a major financial and logistical undertaking aimed at modernising officiating standards in South African football. Aligning these systems with broader regional and international training programmes is essential for a smooth transition.

SAFA has shortlisted five companies from 11 bids to supply VAR technology. The project currently relies on eight trained match officials.

The players

South African Football Association

SAFA is the governing body for football in South Africa and oversees the development of the sport across the nation.

Chad Soo

Chad Soo is an official representing SAFA who has been observing international referee training sessions in Gaborone and Mozambique.

FIFA

FIFA acts as the international governing body for association football, providing global standards and guidance for VAR implementation.

Felix Tangawarima

Felix Tangawarima is a recognised figure in football officiating who contributes to the development and training of match officials.

The details

SAFA is prioritising the testing of VAR in its own competitions before expanding to the Premier Soccer League. The association is also observing training methods used by COSAFA to bridge gaps in its current officiating approach.

14 October 2026: SAFA received 11 bids for the VAR supply contract.
15 October 2026: SAFA held meetings with COSAFA and FIFA officials.
Earlier this year: The government distributed the first R20 million in funding for the VAR project.
2024 or early 2025: Period SAFA could have consulted Felix Tangawarima.

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The Big Picture

The adoption of VAR by SAFA mirrors the standardisation protocols established by the FIFA Football Technology and Innovation Department. The initiative follows the technical framework and training standards set by this global body.

The transition to VAR will standardise officiating calls, potentially reducing human error in critical match moments. Fans can expect future testing in SAFA competitions to refine the system before its introduction to the wider Premier Soccer League.

The takeaway

The successful rollout of VAR depends on both securing the remaining R60 million in funding and training a larger cohort of referees. Clubs and fans should monitor upcoming announcements regarding the selected supplier to gauge when these changes might appear on the pitch.