Royal AM, one of the most talked-about clubs in South African football, is facing a crisis that could see them change ownership or disappear entirely from the Premier Soccer League. With financial troubles mounting and a looming court decision, the fate of the club remains uncertain.
Financial Turmoil Hits Royal AM
Royal AM’s time in South Africa’s top-flight football appears to be coming to an end as the club faces mounting financial difficulties. Reports suggest that the KwaZulu-Natal-based club, owned by businesswoman Shauwn Mkhize, is set to be sold due to a longstanding dispute with the South African Revenue Service (SARS). The club reportedly owes SARS over R40 million, leading to severe financial instability.
The ongoing crisis has had a direct impact on the club’s operations, with the Premier Soccer League (PSL) suspending their monthly grants. The situation has also resulted in the postponement of Royal AM’s fixtures, with their last match being played on 29 December 2024, when they suffered a 3-1 defeat to TS Galaxy.
The Implications of the Sale
According to sources close to the matter, a court ruling has paved the way for the sale or liquidation of Royal AM. The curator overseeing the club’s financial affairs has submitted an urgent application recommending that the PSL delay expelling the club until a buyer is found. A meeting was reportedly held on Friday with an interested buyer, while Mkhize remains determined to fight for ownership of the club she initially purchased for her son, Andile Mpisane.
If a sale goes through, the new owners will inherit the club’s PSL status and resume fixtures from where they were suspended. However, if the sale falls through and liquidation proceeds, Royal AM will be expelled from the league, throwing the status of their remaining fixtures into uncertainty.
PSL and Other Clubs React
With Royal AM’s future hanging in the balance, the PSL Board of Governors is expected to hold an emergency meeting to discuss the club’s fate. Several PSL clubs, including Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, and Kaizer Chiefs, are monitoring the situation closely, as Royal AM’s expulsion could impact fixture scheduling and competition dynamics.
Additionally, there are reports that former club Bloemfontein Celtic—whose PSL status was acquired by Royal AM in 2021—could be revived, with its previous owners potentially stepping in to reclaim a place in the top division. If this happens, it could mark an unexpected twist in South African football.
What Happens Next?
For now, Royal AM’s players and staff remain in limbo, with many hesitant to return to training amid salary delays and financial instability. The sale of the club could provide much-needed relief and stability, allowing them to resume participation in the PSL. However, if no buyer emerges, liquidation would spell the end for Royal AM, forcing the league to adjust its fixture list accordingly.
Also Read: Royal AM on the Brink: Financial Woes, FIFA Sanctions & PSL Expulsion Looming
As the situation unfolds, South African football fans will be keeping a close eye on developments, particularly how this saga will affect the Betway Premiership standings and the ongoing season. Whether Royal AM survives under new ownership or disappears from the league entirely, the next few weeks will be crucial in determining the club’s future.
