The Premier Soccer League (PSL) is set to make an unprecedented request to the South African Football Association (SAFA) to promote three ABC Motsepe League teams for the 2024/25 season, following Royal AM’s controversial exit from the Motsepe Foundation Championship.
Key Details:
• The move aims to maintain an 18-team second division after Royal AM’s disqualification
• Would mark the first three-team promotion from the ABC Motsepe League in history
• SAFA’s Competitions Committee must approve the exceptional measure
Background:
The crisis emerged when Royal AM failed to meet PSL compliance requirements, leaving the Motsepe Foundation Championship with just 15 teams. Normally, only two teams earn promotion from the third-tier ABC Motsepe League each season.
Stakeholder Reactions:
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PSL Chairman: “This ensures competitive integrity while creating opportunities”
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ABC Motsepe Club Owner: “We welcome the chance, but need clarity on selection criteria”
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SAFA Official: “We’ll review sporting merit before deciding”
Potential Impact:
✓ Maintains 18-team professional second division
✓ Triples promotion chances for semi-pro clubs
✓ Sets precedent for future league restructuring
Next Steps:
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Formal PSL submission to SAFA (expected by Friday)
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Emergency SAFA executive meeting next week
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Possible appeals process for excluded ABC Motsepe teams
The decision could dramatically reshape South Africa’s football pyramid, with analysts noting it may accelerate long-discussed reforms of the national league structure.
Clarification: The Betway Premiership (PSL top division) remains unaffected at 16 teams. This proposal specifically addresses the second-tier Motsepe Foundation Championship.
Final Thought: As South African football grapples with administrative challenges, this creative solution could either resolve the immediate crisis – or open new controversies about competitive fairness.
