Royal AM players received a major boost this week as they returned to training on Thursday following months of uncertainty, with the club’s sale now finalized and new ownership set to take over.
The Premier Soccer League (PSL) is expected to officially confirm the new buyers after a chaotic period that saw Royal AM’s financial troubles force the postponement of at least 13 matches this season—damaging both the club’s and the league’s reputation.
Among the affected fixtures was their Nedbank Cup last-32 clash against Milford FC, which was ultimately forfeited due to time constraints, leaving the competition in disarray as teams advanced without knowing their potential opponents.
New Ownership Secured
SABC Sport has learned that a Durban-based businessman has purchased the club from the South African Revenue Service (SARS), which had seized control after owner Shauwn Mkhize defaulted on tax obligations. The sale ensures Royal AM will remain in KwaZulu-Natal, with the new owner outbidding rival investors from Mpumalanga, Free State, Gauteng, and even the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Players were informed of the takeover on Tuesday and instructed to resume training immediately, with the PSL expected to provide clarity on rescheduling postponed matches.
Relegation Battle & Financial Incentives
Currently languishing at the bottom of the Premiership with just eight points from 11 games, Royal AM faces a tough fight for survival. To motivate the squad, the new owner has reportedly promised significant bonuses if the team avoids relegation.
Stadium Uncertainty
It remains unclear whether the club will continue playing at Harry Gwala Stadium in Pietermaritzburg or relocate to Durban for home matches.
Royal AM’s last match was a 3-1 defeat to TS Galaxy on December 29. Their next scheduled fixture is against Magesi FC on April 5, pending an official PSL announcement regarding the club’s reinstatement.
With fresh investment and renewed focus, the club and its players now have a chance to turn their season around—but the road ahead remains challenging.
