MBABANE – The country is finally expected to have Video Assistant Referee (VAR) Lite and other technological tools in the upcoming season.
The Eswatini Football Association (EFA) has announced the potential introduction of VAR Lite for the upcoming 2025/26 season.
The confirmation came from EFA President Peter ‘Samora’ Simelane and Chief Executive Officer Frederick Mngomezulu during the opening ceremony of the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) Member Associations (MA) Referees Course at the Technical Centre in Lobamba yesterday.
In his address, Simelane emphasised EFA’s commitment to adopting cutting-edge technologies to enhance refereeing standards in Eswatini football.
He outlined plans to initially implement VAR Lite in Premier League competitions, with a gradual rollout to lower divisions over time.
“We aim to introduce equipment such as communication devices and video coverage to support referee evaluation and training. Additionally, we will explore opportunities to provide more of our referees with VAR training,” Simelane explained.
Simelane and Mngomezulu confirmed that the new refereeing technologies, including VAR Lite, are expected to be operational for the 2025/26 season, with the Trade Fair Cup serving as the first opportunity to utilise the equipment.
“We are actively pursuing one or two VAR Lite systems from relevant authorities and are determined to have these technologies in place for the upcoming season,” Simelane affirmed.
The FIFA MA Referees Course was highlighted as a pivotal opportunity for the 33 elite referees in attendance.
Simelane urged them to seize this chance to refine their skills, enhance their professionalism and elevate their management of competitive matches.
“We commend your dedication to advancing the game and pledge our support as you grow in your refereeing careers,” he said.
Simelane extended a warm welcome to FIFA Referee Experts Paulo Marques from Portugal and Malawi’s Mark Mzengo, who will share their expertise with the referees until Friday.
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The Eswatini Football Association (EFA) has announced the potential introduction of VAR Lite for the upcoming 2025/26 season. (Pic: Melusi Mkhabela)