Late payment of salaries highlights SAFA’s financial woes

Staff at the South African Football Association’s headquarters were told that their salaries would not be paid on time this month. This was revealed in a letter sent to employees by CEO Lydia Monyepao and subsequently leaked to the media.

Monyepao explained this was due to a delayed payment from one of SAFA’s partners.

The partner promised to honour its commitment by the 31st of this month after which staff would be paid. These developments are an indication that SAFA has serious cash flow problems.

In December, Monyepao admitted the association owed national players a substantial amount in match bonuses.

The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture eventually paid a R5 million advance to settle the bonuses.

SAFA also reported a R107 million shortfall for the 2022-23 financial year.