Eddie Chikamhi-Zimpapers Sports Hub
GOVERNMENT has hailed ZIFA’s introduction of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology as a transformative step for Zimbabwean football.
Speaking at the official opening of the specialised VAR training programme in Harare yesterday, Sports and Recreation Commission Director of Finance, Human Resources and Administration, Brian Hodza, praised ZIFA.
Hodza, who was the guest of honour, said Government was proud of the innovation being driven by local football authorities.
He welcomed the support of private sector partners, particularly Sakunda Holdings, which is funding the project.
“Ultimately, you know, sport is a public good in the sense that the Government should take it upon itself to provide resources to enable sport to be enjoyed by the citizens.
“But the Government cannot do it alone.
“And, for that reason, we celebrate ZIFA pulling hands and resources with Sakunda and other partners.
“This is not only pioneering but also transformative in the sense that Zimbabweans football will never be the same again and this is something that could be transferred to the other sporting codes.
“I know stones are often thrown at ZIFA, but you have done well and we have to celebrate that.”
Hodza added:
“Sport is such an important element of Vision 2030 because it contributes to youth development and also supports national vision and enhances the idea of national pride.”
ZIFA yesterday started the training of local match officials for VAR, with support from FIFA.
The programme will run in phases until November 16, after which participants will undergo assessments as part of the certification and implementation process.
Hodza said the training represents a major milestone in ZIFA’s efforts to modernise officiating standards and address concerns over controversial refereeing decisions in domestic football.
Participants will complete four phases of training, beginning with theoretical instruction and simulation exercises before progressing to practical match scenarios and full-match assessments.
However, the system does not come cheap as it requires heavy multi-camera hardware, dedicated control facilities, specialised personnel, ongoing match-day logistics and maintenance.
ZIFA is expected to invest about US$3,2 million during the first phase of implementation, with the technology earmarked for use in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League from next season.
A pilot programme is scheduled for November 28, when VAR will be used for the first time in the topflight during the Chibuku Super Cup final at Chahwanda Stadium.
PSL chairman Isaiah Mupfurutsa welcomed the development, describing it as a landmark moment for domestic football.
“As for me and my constituency, which is the PSL, we are so excited and very grateful over this development.
“I think it will take away a lot of burden from our backs. We know the referees have been judged harshly by a lot of people, probably without the full knowledge of the laws of the game.
“Football is a game of emotions but sometimes after going back to review the incident when the emotions are down you would start to think that the referees were probably right after all.
“I think with the introduction of the VAR, it will be very easy for us. I can’t wait to see the first game being played under VAR,” said Mupfurutsa.
FIFA Referees Instructor Felix Tangawarima said they were planning long-term for VAR in Zimbabwe by capacitating as many officials as possible.
