The South African Football Association (Safa) has confirmed that the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system will not be implemented during the 2026/27 PSL season, despite government funding being allocated specifically for this purpose.

Safa head of referees Abdul Ebrahim stated that extensive training is required before deployment, which hasn't started yet due to logistical challenges.The project team awaits approval from the National Executive Committee to outline next steps, with no rollout planned for the upcoming campaign.

This decision comes as a significant disappointment to fans and stakeholders who had anticipated VAR's introduction, highlighting ongoing challenges in implementing advanced technology in South African football.Minister Gayton McKenzie had previously confirmed funding transfers, but Safa's finance committee has placed the funds in a ring-fenced account.The delay underscores the complexities of integrating VAR into domestic competitions despite international collaboration through FIFA programs.