New Safa referee committee chairman and former referee ace Victor Gomes said work has begun to bring Video Assistant Refereeing (VAR) to the PSL.
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But based on what he said, there’s still a lot to do before the program can be fully implemented in local games, so it might not be long.
Gomes said that they are already working on the budget to introduce VAR and negotiations with service providers have also started.
“We have to train first. But before I explain everything, let me go through the process,” said Gomes in Marawa Sports Worldwide on Wednesday.
Gomes said that the process to bring the program is long and they need to ensure that Safa and PSL are ready for its introduction.
Safa must ensure that referees are adequately trained. PSL must ensure that clubs can provide the necessary facilities.
“Fifa has a 32-page document that has been issued which has the requirements and how VAR works.
“Every game should be treated as if it were going to be broadcast live on TV – every game,” explained Gomes.
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“Once that’s done, we can introduce VAR. You can’t have one match played with VAR and another not.
Gomes feels he has achieved his goal
“So we have to understand that once it’s introduced in the league we have to be able to use it in every game.”
Gomes said that VAR will also help local referees when performing international duties as they will use the same system.
“For me as a referee, it’s difficult for me to go into a match with VAR and change the style of the referee because it requires you.
“And you come back home and have to change again,” said the former PSL Season Referee.
As for why he retired early from what seemed like such a great job, he says he has achieved what he set out to do.
“I feel that I have organized every final in Africa. I went to the Olympics, I did the junior World Cup in Brazil. And now I represent the country in Qatar.