SuperSport United sale confirmed, awaiting PSL approval

The sale of SuperSport United has officially been confirmed, pending approval from the Premier Soccer League (PSL) Executive Committee.

Speculation around the future of the Matsatsantsa club has been circulating for some time, with CEO Stan Matthews consistently denying any sale rumors each season.

However, this time the deal is final as SuperSport United has been sold to a KwaZulu-Natal businessman, who has rebranded the club as Siwelele Football Club.

“SuperSport International would like to confirm the sale of its Premier Soccer League (PSL) club, SuperSport United, to Siwelele Football Club (Pty) Ltd,” SuperSport said in a statement.

“Following a closed bidding process, Siwelele F.C was awarded the rights to purchase the three-time Premiership winners, pending approval by the PSL Executive Committee.

“SuperSport and the MultiChoice Group laid an incredible 30-year platform that we wish to build upon, should we get the final vote of approval from the PSL Executive Committee.

“Out of respect for the PSL Executive Committee’s processes, Siwelele F.C., MultiChoice and SuperSport will not be making any further statements pending the decision of the PSL.”

SuperSport CEO Rendani Ramovha commented on the sale, explaining it as part of the company’s strategic evolution:

“The sale of the club comes as SuperSport makes strategic shifts to allow us to remain the biggest broadcaster in Africa and a leading global competitor.

“Shifts in the market, as well as the need to innovate in accordance with our core business, have necessitated focused direction to allow SuperSport to remain the best sports content provider on the continent and a leader in broadcast innovation.”

SuperSport United has a rich history spanning 31 years, beginning with the acquisition of the Pretoria City franchise.

The club enjoyed great success, winning three consecutive league titles from 2007/08 to 2009/10 under coach Gavin Hunt. They also claimed five Nedbank Cups, three MTN8 trophies, and one Telkom Knockout.

Last season marked the first time the club finished outside the top eight, narrowly avoiding relegation playoffs by just one point.

The club was also renowned for having one of the country’s strongest youth academies, developing talents such as Ronwen Williams, Daine Klate, Kermit Erasmus, and Kamohelo Mokotjo.