Reality television personality and entrepreneur Shauwn “MaMkhize” Mkhize has officially addressed reports regarding the fate of her football club, Royal AM, after SARS has assumed control over the club’s operations due to financial discrepancies.
Royal AM’s R40 Million Tax Debt Revealed
According to court documents from media outlets, Royal AM reportedly faces an unpaid tax bill of nearly R40 million. MaMkhize acknowledged these challenges in her statement, expressing regret over unpaid December 2024 salaries, which have directly affected the players, coaching staff, and other employees.
“We deeply regret the hardships caused by this situation and extend our sincere apologies to everyone affected, including their families,” she stated. “While the club is under curatorship following a preservation order from SARS, we are working tirelessly to resolve these issues as quickly as possible.”
Operational Disruptions Impact Team Activities
The financial crisis has significantly disrupted the club’s operations. Earlier this week, players who arrived at the Pietermaritzburg training grounds were turned away due to unpaid salaries. Sources close to the club confirmed that December wages remain outstanding.
MaMkhize elaborated on the ongoing efforts to address these issues, saying,
“Our management team, led by the CEO and general manager, is collaborating closely with the appointed curator to secure approval for the release of funds to pay salaries. The well-being of our staff has always been a top priority for Royal AM, and we remain committed to supporting them through these difficult times.”
PSL and Nedbank Cup Participation in Question
The team’s future participation in competitive events has also come under scrutiny. Following recent raids by police and SARS officials at the Royal AM clubhouse in Pietermaritzburg, club executives, including CEO Sinky Mnisi and General Manager Richard Makhoba, have remained silent. With Royal AM among the 32 teams set to participate in the upcoming Nedbank Cup draw in Sandton, it remains unclear how the Premier Soccer League (PSL) will address the situation.