- SAFA has outlined a new legal strategy in the case involving its president and senior officials
- The football association has explained why it disputes the way the criminal proceedings were initiated
- The organisation has also announced measures involving legal representation and possible civil action
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The South African Football Association (SAFA) has announced that it will cover the legal costs of president Danny Jordaan and chief financial officer Gronie Hluyo as their criminal case continues. The association has also outlined plans to challenge allegations involving its senior officials and consider legal action against people it believes have damaged its reputation.
In a statement published on 21 October 2026, SAFA said its National Executive Committee (NEC) had agreed on several measures following a meeting in Johannesburg over the weekend.
SAFA disputes its role in the criminal case
SAFA maintains that it never lodged a complaint with the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Hawks or any other authority in connection with the case at the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court.
The association referred to a letter written by chief executive officer Lydia Monyepao in December 2024. According to SAFA, the letter stated that the association was not a complainant and that those pursuing the proceedings were former NEC members and employees acting in their personal capacities.
The case involves Jordaan, Hluyo, Grit Communications director Trevor Neethling and former acting chief executive Russel Paul, who were asked to address allegations including theft, corruption and fraud.
The allegations remain subject to the legal process and should not be treated as established wrongdoing.
SAFA plans legal intervention and civil action
The NEC resolved that SAFA would submit a detailed written statement to the court disputing wrongdoing by Jordaan, Hluyo and Paul.
The association also said it would pursue civil action against individuals it believes had brought SAFA or its officials into disrepute. It did not identify those individuals in the statement.
Legal costs and further court proceedings
SAFA confirmed that it would pay Jordaan and Hluyo’s legal expenses, including costs already incurred. It will also appoint an attorney and Senior Counsel to attend future proceedings in a watching brief.
The association further stated that it had received unqualified audit opinions during the investigation period and in subsequent audit periods.
The next steps will unfold through the courts, where the allegations and the association’s planned intervention will be addressed through the applicable legal processes.
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Doctor Khumalo lands new SAFA technical committee role
Briefly News also reported that Kaizer Chiefs legend Doctor Khumalo had been appointed vice-chairperson of the South African Football Association’s Technical Committee.
SAFA president Danny Jordaan announced the appointment on Sunday, 18 October 2026, following a three-day NEC meeting in Sandton. Jordaan confirmed that Jack Maluleke would remain chairperson, with Khumalo joining the leadership team.
Source: Briefly News