In contrast, in neighbouring South Africa, which is also on the brink of introducing the programme, the once-off cost of implementation has been put at between R60 million (approximately P44 million) and R80 million (approximately P60 million). The cost of using VAR per game in the South African Premiership is estimated at R70,000 (P52,000). BFA CEO Mfolo Mfolo said there is varied VAR equipment depending on their needs. "The budget involves training, equipment, and support from partners like the broadcaster. Training is provided for free by FIFA and CAF. Equipment is varied and has levels of operations. At our level, we are likely to spend P80, 000. Btv is our broadcast partner so the other costs are on them," Mfolo said.
He said VAR will be used for televised matches as the local game moves to embrace a trend that has largely been prevalent in Europe, with Africa still lagging. As of September 2024, only four countries, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, and Mauritania used VAR. Continental mother body, CAF, has introduced the practice for its competitions including the Champions League, Confederations Cup, and the Africa Cup of Nations for both men and women. Mfolo said it would be unfair for people to criticise the association for making VAR a priority when there are other competing interests to improve the game. "That comment is not fair. VAR will improve the integrity of the game. It will give an opportunity for our referees to be selected for CAF and FIFA major tournaments," he said.
"In fact, on the contrary, from a marketing and commercial aspect, we can generate revenue from VAR through squeeze spaces bought by sponsors," Mfolo added. As part of steps towards introducing the system, this week the BFA held a VAR workshop for match officials and administrators. The workshop, which ends today, runs in collaboration with FIFA and COSAFA. "This workshop is part of a larger initiative to integrate cutting-edge technology into football across the Southern African region, ensuring that all matches are officiated with the highest standard of fairness and accuracy. The introduction of VAR is a major step towards strengthening football governance and upholding the integrity of the sport across the region," the BFA said in a statement.
While VAR was hailed as key in improving the quality of decision making, it has often attracted criticism, particularly in the English Premier League. But match officials who handled the 2024 AFCON finals in Ivory Coast received rave reviews for their use of VAR.
