Pirates fined approximately R400,000 by CAF. Image: iDiski Times.
(The Post News)– The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has imposed heavy financial penalties on Orlando Pirates. This follows an official complaint lodged by the Congolese side, St. Eloi Lupopo, over incidents that occurred during their recent continental clash.
CAF announced the sanctions this week. It confirmed that Pirates were found guilty on two counts of misconduct relating to match-day protocol violations. According to iDiski Times, fines amount to R430,000, a significant disciplinary blow for one of South Africa’s biggest clubs.
The first charge stems from failure to provide Lupopo with the number of accreditation. This was needed for the delegation on arrival in South Africa. CAF ruled that Pirates’ actions breached competition regulations regarding the treatment of visiting teams. It states that Pirates hindered Lupopo’s ability to access designated technical and operational areas.
CAF Slaps Pirates with Two Fines
Pirates was fined R86 000, with CAF noting that compliance with accreditation guidelines is non-negotiable at the continental level.
The second complaint relates to an incident in which chemicals were sprayed inside Lupopo’s locker room ahead of the match. Lupopo officials alleged that the substance affected their players’ preparation and posed safety and health risks.
CAF reviewed the complaint and imposed an R344,000 fine on Pirates. They deemed the act unacceptable. It was in violation of fair play and safety standards. The governing body did not publicly confirm the nature of the chemicals. But emphasized that match environments must be controlled, safe, and free from any form of interference.
Orlando Pirates have not released an official statement addressing the fines or CAF’s findings. However, the club may challenge some elements of the ruling or request clarifications from the disciplinary committee.
The sanctions come at a time when CAF has toughened its stance on match-day misconduct. With several clubs across the continent penalized this season for breaching regulations aimed at safeguarding fairness and professionalism.
The fines do not carry sporting sanctions. However, they add pressure to a club already navigating a demanding CAF calendar. The club also has to manage domestic commitments. More importantly, the ruling places Pirates under renewed scrutiny from CAF, meaning any future infractions may draw harsher penalties.
The Buccaneers are expected to settle the fines. While ensuring that all operational and match-day procedures adhere strictly to CAF rules going forward. The disciplinary ruling serves as an eye-opener in continental football that compliance is as crucial as performance.
About the Author
Discover more from The Post News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
