Durban rejects bribery claims after winning 2026 MTN8 final bid

eThekwini City Manager Musa Mbhele has denied claims that the municipality made under-the-table payments to secure hosting rights for the 2026 MTN8 final.

Moses Mabhida Stadium will stage the match on Saturday, 10 October 2026, after eThekwini was announced as the successful bidder.

The final will bring together defending champions Orlando Pirates and CAF Champions League winners Mamelodi Sundowns, with the two clubs competing for the first major silverware of the domestic season.

The decision has prompted debate because Moses Mabhida Stadium will host the MTN8 final for the sixth time in seven years. It will also be the venue’s 10th final since the competition was rebranded.

Social media users have questioned whether payments were made to influence the choice, but Mbhele dismissed the allegations at a media briefing on Tuesday morning.

He said Durban’s appeal as a tourist destination, together with its infrastructure and atmosphere, made it an attractive host without the need for financial inducements.

“We don’t do anything like pay for the matches. We don’t do that. People just love Durban because of the electric atmosphere they find here. We are a tourist destination of choice,” Mbhele said.

“MTN knows themselves that they are likely to do well – to market their brand well because we are one of the big three metros.

“Accommodation establishments are there. We have got tourism endowments such as the beaches.

“And the caring nature of Ubuntu is among the things we have. So when people are here, they are generally just happy – there would be no need to pay, except to produce what we have.

“We spend money in keeping our beaches clean. We spend money on ensuring that we support our tourist establishments and all other players in the value chain.

“As a result, people find it very attractive to come here without paying a cent.”

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) Executive traditionally selects the venue for the MTN8 final. Its assessment considers neutral bids, commercial viability, stadium readiness and administrative requirements, rather than influence from municipalities.

On the pitch, Orlando Pirates will pursue a record-extending fifth consecutive MTN8 final appearance and the chance to retain the trophy.

Mamelodi Sundowns, meanwhile, will aim to end their domestic cup struggles and win the Wafa Wafa trophy for the first time since 2021.

Tickets will be available online through Open Tickets from Friday, 2 October 2026, at 10:00. They will cost R150.