PSL referees now receive security on match days
Referees in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) will now be provided with security on match days. This follows an agreement between the PSL and SAFA to reintroduce protection services for match officials.
The move comes after an attempted attack on referee Luxolo Badi by a spectator during the Carling Knockout quarter-final between Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns at FNB Stadium last weekend.
SAFA, the governing body concerned about the safety of referees, has been addressing incidents of abuse at matches, especially during high-profile games.
This issue was brought to the PSL’s attention, leading them to revisit security arrangements.
Before the Covid pandemic in 2020, a budget had been set aside to provide safety measures for referees, just as the PSL allocates funds for their payment.
The decision to provide security was made following discussions between SAFA and the PSL, with head of referees Abdul Ebrahim calling for more protection at the start of the 2024/25 season.
As a result, bodyguards were present at the Carling Knockout semi-final between Richards Bay and Magesi FC at the King Zwelithini Stadium in Durban on Saturday.
Both clubs were informed before the match that security personnel would now accompany match officials. This step is expected to be welcomed by Ebrahim. The absence of VAR in the PSL has put extra pressure on referees, with Ebrahim previously stating that fans often misunderstand the rules of the game, which can lead to unfair criticism.
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