Online Reporter
Curtworth Masango, Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIFA president Nqobile Magwizi says Zimbabwe is now at an advanced stage in the introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, with referee training scheduled to begin on October 25.
The programme, being implemented with support from Fifa, is expected to take about three months, with selected domestic matches likely to be used during the initial implementation and assessment phase.
Magwizi revealed the developments yesterday during a Press conference convened by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Nicholas Moyo, at the National Sports Stadium.
He said a two-day kick-off meeting with Fifa had already begun as authorities move towards introducing the technology to domestic football.
“On the issue of VAR, there is a kick-off meeting with Fifa which started this morning and will run until tomorrow. The installation of VAR is a project which takes approximately three months to complete,” said Magwizi.
“The training of referees is scheduled to start on October 25 and will continue into November. Once the training has been completed, the referees will undergo assessment as part of the implementation process.”
Zimbabwean referees will have to satisfy the required standards before VAR can be fully deployed in domestic competitions.
Magwizi said Zifa was also engaging the Premier Soccer League over the possibility of using selected matches during the implementation phase.
“Additionally, some matches will be subjected to VAR during this process. In consultation with the PSL, we will probably target selected matches, including some games in the Chibuku Super Cup, as part of the testing and implementation phase,” he said.
The football mother body expects to have a clearer framework for the use of VAR ahead of the 2027 domestic season, including provisions governing its application in competition rules.
“By the time we get to next season, we should have clarity on which matches and competitions will be covered by VAR. That will then be incorporated into the competition rules for next season,” said Magwizi.
He added that procurement of equipment was already underway.
“We are at a very advanced stage because this is now the final component of the process, particularly in terms of bringing in the necessary equipment.
“The VAR equipment for Zimbabwe is already being purchased. For training purposes, there is also a consultant who will bring equipment that will be used during the training programme starting in October.”
The introduction of VAR would mark a significant technological development for Zimbabwean domestic football, bringing selected competitions in line with leagues and tournaments elsewhere that already use video technology to assist match officials.
