Royal AM Sale Draws Strong Interest Locally and Globally

(The Post News)– The sale of Royal AM, the troubled Premier Soccer League (PSL) club, has attracted significant interest, with six bids submitted ahead of last Friday’s deadline. The club, under curatorship after being placed in financial turmoil, is now in the hands of a South African Revenue Service (SARS) curator, Jaco Venter, who is overseeing the auction.

A bid in the region of R20 million has emerged as one of the serious offers, as various parties from both local and international circles vie for ownership. Among those making moves is a consortium led by former SuperSport United PR officer and uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party member of parliament David “Mazolman” Skosana, alongside businessman Joe “Ferrari” Sibanyoni, known for his work in the taxi and logistics industries. Also reportedly in the mix is internationally renowned DJ Black Coffee, who has allegedly submitted a strong bid.

In addition to local bids, there are reports that Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie is actively pursuing a return of Royal AM to Bloemfontein. McKenzie has been engaging with Greek businessmen who have expressed interest in acquiring the team, with the aim of revitalising the club’s fortunes. An international bidder from the Democratic Republic of Congo is also said to be eyeing the club, suggesting the sale could have a broader continental impact.

The club’s owner, businesswoman Shauwn “MaMkhize” Mkhize, reportedly owes SARS around R40-million in unpaid taxes. The club’s current struggles have been compounded by a suspension in January by the PSL, following the club’s failure to honour certain league and cup commitments. https://www.thepostnews.net/2025/02/21/sars-moves-to-sell-royal-am-over-mounting-financial-woes/

Further complicating matters are the unresolved financial disputes with players. Royal AM is reportedly in arrears, with notable figures such as Samir Nurkovic claiming around R15-million in unpaid wages. Four other players are currently involved in disputes within the PSL’s dispute resolution chamber, and the full extent of the club’s debt remains unclear.

The sale agreement also mentions an ongoing transfer ban imposed by FIFA’s Football Tribunal due to non-payment of funds to Nurkovic and unresolved issues with four players. The reported bid for Royal AM was around R500 million. This figure reflects the significant interest in acquiring the club, especially after its performance in the Premier Soccer League. The transfer of ownership is subject to approval from the PSL executive committee. The committee will review the bids before granting any formal ownership change.