SAFA unable to pay staff as financial woes deepen

The South African Football Association (SAFA) will not be able to pay staff salaries on time this month.

According to media reports, the cash-strapped association has since provided an explanation for the delay.

SAFA typically processes staff salaries on the 25th of each month. However, this time, employees were informed of a delay, with payments expected at a later date.

The notification was issued just a day before payday, coinciding with Bafana Bafana’s preparations for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Benin in Côte d’Ivoire.

“We were told that the salaries would not be paid in time because one of the partners has delayed releasing funds. SAFA said it currently has no financial reserves to pay staff in the meantime,” a SAFA staff member told FARPost.

The source further stated that SAFA assured employees the partner had committed to making the payment next week, after which salaries would be processed.

In December, the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture advanced R5 million to SAFA to cover outstanding payments for national team players ahead of the festive season.

Minister Gayton McKenzie stated at the time: “We cannot allow players to go into this festive season without payment especially since they have done the country proud.”

SAFA has acknowledged that sponsorship revenues have been insufficient, compounded by delayed payments from various partners.

The association is reportedly working on a financial turnaround strategy to increase revenues and reduce costs.

The current salary delay underscores ongoing financial challenges within SAFA, highlighting the need for sustainable solutions to ensure timely compensation for staff and players. 

IOL Sport