McKenzie Demands Return of VAR Funds from SAFA

On August 25, 2023, during the South African Sports Awards in Sun City, Gayton McKenzie, the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, expressed his frustration over the delay in the implementation of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in the Premier Soccer League (PSL). McKenzie confirmed that he allocated R30 million to the South African Football Association (SAFA) for this purpose, clarifying the amount after initial reports cited R13 million.

He has formally requested the return of the funds, stating, “bring back my money, the money of the state, because I am responsible for it.” SAFA has requested 21 days to respond, but McKenzie remains dissatisfied with the lack of action. Abdul Ebrahim, SAFA’s head of referees, indicated that while the funding has been received, internal approvals are still pending, making a rollout for the current season unlikely.

McKenzie has decided to escalate the matter to FIFA, having already communicated with them about the situation.