The Premier Soccer League (PSL) and the South African Football Association (SAFA) have decided to bring back referee protection services in response to growing concerns about match officials' safety. A spectator's attempt to assault referee Luxolo Badi during last weekend's Carling Knockout quarterfinal match between Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns at FNB Stadium served as the impetus for the judgement.
Because it highlighted the need for improved security measures, especially in high-stakes, top-flight games where emotions are running high, the event caused anxiety inside SAFA.
Since then, SAFA, the regulatory organisation in charge of referee welfare, has worked with the PSL to review the safety regulations that were in effect before being suspended in 2020 because to the Covid-19 outbreak.
The PSL had set aside money expressly for referees' security and pay before the virus struck.
However, because of financial limitations during the health crisis, these initiatives were put on hold for a while. The PSL and SAFA have come to a new agreement to put referees' safety first, as tensions have increased over a number of recent incidents involving match officials.
Security guards were on hand to protect the referees during the Carling Knockout semi-final between Richards Bay and Magesi FC at Durban's King Zwelithini Stadium, demonstrating the return of protection services.
The pre-match briefing told both teams that going forward, match officials will be escorted by bodyguards. This arrangement attempts to prevent supporters or spectators from acting in a disruptive manner in addition to protecting referees.
Abdul Ebrahim, the head of referees, had already expressed his worries at the beginning of the 2024–2025 season, stressing the necessity of "protecting" match officials in the face of a string of contentious rulings that have periodically infuriated supporters.
Referees are scrutinised more in the PSL without VAR, and fans frequently misinterpret or disagree with key calls. According to Ebrahim, the absence of technology can put referees under excessive pressure, resulting in unjustified criticism and, in certain situations, physical threats.
The PSL and SAFA's latest decision is a proactive move to guarantee referees can perform their duties without risk of injury, creating a safer atmosphere for officials and spectators alike.
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