In a major development within South African football, David “Mazolman” Skosana, a former SuperSport United PRO and MK Party Member of Parliament, has reportedly teamed up with renowned entrepreneur Joe “Ferrari” Sibanyoni to place a bid to acquire financially troubled PSL club, Royal AM. Their consortium has put forward an offer of R15 million to purchase the club, which is currently under curatorship due to its severe financial issues.
Royal AM’s Financial Struggles and Curatorship
Royal AM, owned by Shauwn “MaMkhize” Mkhize, has been enduring significant financial difficulties, including a massive tax debt of R40 million to the South African Revenue Service (SARS). As a result, the club was placed under curatorship, and its assets are now being sold to recover the outstanding tax owed. Additionally, Royal AM is currently under a FIFA transfer ban due to a R15 million debt to former player Samir Nurković, further complicating the club’s already precarious situation. With the club’s future in jeopardy, the auction is set to take place on March 14, 2025, with the winning bid to be announced on March 17, 2025.
The Bidding MK Party Consortium’s Vision for Royal AM
Skosana and Sibanyoni’s consortium are confident that their bid will help steer the club back on track. One of the consortium’s key objectives is to maintain the club’s status in the PSL while preserving employment for the current players, technical team, and staff. In their proposal, they have emphasised the importance of professionalism and corporate governance, which they believe will be essential in running a successful football business.
Skosana, who has more than two decades of experience in the football industry, is particularly optimistic about the potential of Royal AM under his leadership. He was part of the SuperSport United team that thrived under Pitso Mosimane and helped the club secure three consecutive league titles under Gavin Hunt. This experience, the consortium believes, will be pivotal in turning Royal AM into one of the most successful teams in the PSL.
Plans for Relocation to Mpumalanga
According to reports, the consortium intends to relocate Royal AM to KwaNdebele in Mpumalanga for the 2025/2026 PSL season as part of their long-term vision. While the club is currently based in KwaZulu-Natal, the consortium sees the move as an opportunity to expand the club’s fan base and provide more benefits to people in Mpumalanga.
Addressing Outstanding Financial Issues
The bid proposal also addresses the club’s outstanding financial obligations. Skosana has reportedly confirmed that the bid amount will be paid in full within five days of the bid being approved. While the consortium plans to purchase the club “without any going concern,” they have committed to paying off any outstanding salaries owed to players and the technical team.
Royal AM’s Future Under New Ownership
Royal AM’s future is uncertain, but with the financial backing and expertise of Skosana and Sibanyoni, there is hope that the club can recover from its current crisis. The outcome of the auction, which will be held in March, will determine whether the MK Party consortium will succeed in their bid to acquire the club and restore it to its former glory.
Related article: Royal AM Up for Sale – How to Bid for the Club and What’s at Stake
