An internal letter that was leaked to the media revealed that SAFA could not pay employees for March. CEO Lydia Monyepao drafted it and sent it to all SAFA staff members.
The financial struggles of the association have long been an issue that they are still battling.
SAFA Threatening to Dampen Spirits
Due to the impressive performances from both Bafana Bafana and Banyana Banyana recently, there has been a jovial spirit associated with South African football. However, such news has the potential to dampen collective spirits.
“We are writing to inform you that, regrettably, we will not be able to pay your salaries tomorrow,” the letter to SAFA employees read.
“Normally your salaries are paid on the 25th of each month. However, due to a delayed payment from one of our partners, inevitably we will also delay your salary payments.
“Unfortunately, at this stage we do not have adequate financial reserves to make up for this delayed payment.
“We have received a commitment from our partner that we will have our payment before 31st March 2025. Therefore, your March salaries will be paid by 31st March 2025.
“We sincerely apologise for this delay and all the inconveniences it may cause.” The letter concluded.
This will have been a bitter blow to the SAFA employees. Unfortunately, it also wasn’t the only instance of SAFA facing financial struggles.
Other Incidents of Financial Turmoil
In December 2024, the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture offered the association a R5 million advance on its annual grant. This followed President Danny Jordaan’s arrest on charges of theft and fraud.
The R5 million amount represents 70% of the grant allocated to SAFA.
Furthermore, reports indicate that SAFA has failed to pay bonuses to the Banyana Banyana and Bafana Bafana players for 2024. The amount owed by the association is said to be around R6 million.
In May 2024, SAFA’s financial report indicated a shortfall of R107 million.
Will SAFA’s financial troubles threaten the success of Banyana Banyana and Bafana Bafana?
Share your thoughts with us in the comments below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1!
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