Zimbabwean football is getting VAR for the first time in a local cup final. The Chibuku Super Cup decider at Chahwanda Stadium in Kwekwe will serve as the debut test, with plans already in place to bring the tech into league games next season.
And there's serious cash behind the project. Sakunda Holdings is backing the rollout with US$3.2 million, giving local football a chance to use video reviews for big calls that can change how matches play out.
Felix Tangawarima, a FIFA instructor for match referees, shared the plans at a Harare workshop. His update came as the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) began preparing officials to use the new setup.
Referees have four parts to get through before they qualify. First comes theory, followed by mock reviews, hands-on match drills, and full-game tests. Each official must pass the required checks before being cleared to work with VAR.
The tech can help when a goal is in doubt, a player may be offside, or a penalty call needs another look. Straight red cards and cases where a referee picks the wrong player can also be reviewed.
Fans who have argued over bad calls may welcome the move. ZIFA hopes video checks will cut down on disputes involving teams, coaches, and supporters, though the real test will come when the cameras go live.
But trained referees aren't enough on their own. Tangawarima made it clear that TV crews must be ready as well. Without proper support from those who film the games, the system won't work as planned.
That puts the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) and Zimpapers Television Network (ZTN) in the mix. Both have rights to show Castle Lager Premier Soccer League matches, making their role key to the wider rollout.
VAR also needs more than a few cameras near the field. Video rooms, trained staff, several camera angles, and regular upkeep are all part of the setup. Match officials need clear footage to make the right calls.
Rather than bring it to every ground at once, ZIFA wants a gradual launch. Major venues and selected fixtures will get the tech first, giving staff room to deal with issues before more matches are added.
The first live cup test should give officials a clearer view of how well the setup works during a competitive game. From there, the plan is to expand its use across the top-flight league.
And there's serious cash behind the project. Sakunda Holdings is backing the rollout with US$3.2 million, giving local football a chance to use video reviews for big calls that can change how matches play out.
Felix Tangawarima, a FIFA instructor for match referees, shared the plans at a Harare workshop. His update came as the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) began preparing officials to use the new setup.
Referees have four parts to get through before they qualify. First comes theory, followed by mock reviews, hands-on match drills, and full-game tests. Each official must pass the required checks before being cleared to work with VAR.
The tech can help when a goal is in doubt, a player may be offside, or a penalty call needs another look. Straight red cards and cases where a referee picks the wrong player can also be reviewed.
Fans who have argued over bad calls may welcome the move. ZIFA hopes video checks will cut down on disputes involving teams, coaches, and supporters, though the real test will come when the cameras go live.
But trained referees aren't enough on their own. Tangawarima made it clear that TV crews must be ready as well. Without proper support from those who film the games, the system won't work as planned.
That puts the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) and Zimpapers Television Network (ZTN) in the mix. Both have rights to show Castle Lager Premier Soccer League matches, making their role key to the wider rollout.
VAR also needs more than a few cameras near the field. Video rooms, trained staff, several camera angles, and regular upkeep are all part of the setup. Match officials need clear footage to make the right calls.
Rather than bring it to every ground at once, ZIFA wants a gradual launch. Major venues and selected fixtures will get the tech first, giving staff room to deal with issues before more matches are added.
The first live cup test should give officials a clearer view of how well the setup works during a competitive game. From there, the plan is to expand its use across the top-flight league.
