FIFA to discuss VAR implementation in Ghana's domestic leagues

The Federation Internationale de Football Associations (FIFA) is set to hold a significant meeting with representatives from the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and key stakeholders concerning the implementation of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in Ghana’s domestic leagues.

Scheduled for October 31 and November 1, 2024, this two-day meeting will take place in Accra, featuring the full VAR project team from FIFA.

Dubbed the "VAR kick-off meeting," this session is a vital first step in FIFA’s Implementation Assessment Approval Program (IAAP), a necessary process for any Member Association (MA) looking to adopt VAR technology.

During this initial gathering, FIFA and GFA officials will thoroughly review all aspects of the VAR project, evaluating the essential requirements for its successful deployment.

FIFA's approval following the meeting will serve as the official endorsement for the introduction of VAR in Ghana's domestic leagues.

The FIFA delegation is expected to arrive in Ghana on October 30, 2024. Key figures from FIFA, including Inokuchi Takaaki and Michael Bailey, will provide insights into the technology and procedures related to VAR.

Leading the Ghanaian delegation, General Secretary Prosper Harisson Addo (Esq.) will be accompanied by several high-ranking officials and experts, including Alex Kotey (Head of Referees and VAR Team Leader), Emmanuel Aglago (VAR Instructor), Marian Mensah (Head of Legal Affairs), Francis Adu (Head of IT), Julius Emunah (Head of Competitions), Neil Armstrong-Mortagbe (Head of PR and Strategy), and Christine Ziga (Chairperson of the Referees Committee).

FIFA has mandated the participation of the VAR Project Leader, the main Venue Media Officer, and the Referees Instructor in this meeting to ensure all critical stakeholders are well-informed and ready for the technological and logistical challenges of implementing VAR in domestic competitions.

The move to incorporate VAR into Ghanaian football demonstrates the GFA's commitment to improving the accuracy of refereeing decisions and aligning with international officiating standards.

This meeting is anticipated to set the groundwork for the effective introduction of VAR, furthering the GFA's efforts to enhance the game in the country.