More troubles for Shauwn Mkhize (MaMkhize)! Troubles continue to mount for businesswoman and reality TV star Shauwn “MaMkhize” Mkhize, as her football team, Royal AM FC, faces an uncertain future following the Premier Soccer League’s (PSL) suspension of their fixtures.
The suspension stems from Royal AM’s financial woes, as the club is currently under SARS curatorship, with its funds frozen. This has led to unpaid salaries since December 2024 and operational difficulties that have disrupted the team’s schedule.
Financial Struggles and Legal Challenges
The team’s challenges began after a court ruling granted a preservation order and search seizure warrant in a case involving the SARS commissioner, Mam’Mkhize, and others. The legal action resulted in the freezing of Royal AM’s accounts, leaving the club unable to fulfill its financial commitments.
Shauwn Mkhize
Shauwn Mkhize
Royal AM has since failed to pay its players and staff, a situation that escalated into missed fixtures. Their last PSL match was played on 29 December 2024, where they suffered a 3-1 defeat against TS Galaxy. They are currently in the relegation zone, with their future in the league looking bleak.
The financial instability also caused Royal AM to forfeit their scheduled match against Chippa United FC on 11 January 2025, citing complications from the appointment of the curator.
PSL Suspends Royal AM Fixtures
The PSL, led by acting CEO Mato Madlala, announced on 22 January 2025 that all Royal AM fixtures have been suspended until further notice. This decision was communicated to PSL chairpersons via an official letter and was followed by a public statement.
“On 9 January 2025, Royal AM FC informed the league that it could not meet its commitments in respect of its match against Chippa United FC on 11 January 2025 due to difficulties arising from the appointment of a curator,” the statement read.
Shauwn Mkhize (MaMkhize)
The PSL’s Executive Committee (ExCo) convened three meetings to seek assurances that Royal AM, under curatorship, could fulfill its match commitments. However, no satisfactory resolution was reached.
Unresolved Issues and Missed Deadlines
The PSL revealed that Royal AM management and the appointed curator were expected to submit a joint letter of comfort by 17 January 2025, confirming that the financial and operational issues had been resolved. However, no such letter was provided.
“No such letter of comfort has been forthcoming, and ExCo has been left with no alternative but to cancel the PSL fixture—Royal AM vs. Orlando Pirates at Harry Gwala Stadium—and to suspend all other Royal AM fixtures (Betway Premiership and Nedbank Cup) until further notice.”
The highly anticipated match against Orlando Pirates, initially set for 23 January 2025 at the Harry Gwala Stadium in Pietermaritzburg, was officially cancelled.
Next Steps
The PSL’s Executive Committee is set to meet on 24 January 2025 to allow Royal AM, under curatorship, to present its case. This meeting will determine whether the team can resume its participation in the league.
Despite the looming uncertainty, Royal AM’s suspension sends a strong message about the league’s stance on compliance and financial accountability.
Shauwn “MaMkhize” Mkhize
A Blow to Mam’Mkhize
The suspension of Royal AM fixtures marks a significant setback for Mam’Mkhize, who has been a prominent figure in South African football and entertainment. Known for her opulent lifestyle and influence, she now faces the challenge of salvaging her team’s reputation and securing its place in the league.
Conclusion
As the PSL waits for Royal AM to provide assurances about its ability to meet its obligations, the team’s players, staff, and fans are left in limbo. The outcome of the 24 January meeting will determine the next chapter for Royal AM FC, but the current state of affairs underscores the importance of financial compliance and operational stability in professional sports.
For Mam’Mkhize, this ordeal serves as a reminder of the challenges that come with balancing ambition and accountability in the competitive world of football management.