Richards Bay and Milford face venue uncertainty after four-week uMhlathuze Stadium ban

Richards Bay FC and newly promoted Milford FC may have to move their upcoming home fixtures after the Premier Soccer League suspended the use of uMhlathuze Stadium for four weeks.

The ban will begin on 13 August 2026 and follows an inspection carried out by PSL representatives at the Richards Bay venue last week. Richards Bay confirmed the decision on Monday, but neither the club nor the league has revealed why the stadium has been suspended.

The development comes shortly after Richards Bay opened their 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign at the ground, losing 2-1 to Polokwane City on Sunday.

The club now faces the task of finding an alternative venue for its home matches during the suspension. Milford FC, who also use uMhlathuze Stadium as their home ground, could face the same disruption as they prepare for their first season in the top flight.

Richards Bay issued an apology to supporters while stressing that the decision was outside the club’s control.

“Richards Bay FC regrets to announce that the PSL has issued a ban on fixtures at the uMhlathuze Stadium for a 4-week period starting on 13 August 2026.

“A decision was taken last week after an inspection that was conducted by PSL representatives.

“The Club will keep the supporters and fans updated on the progress once received.

“We apologise for the situation which is beyond our control.”

The suspension is a significant setback for Richards Bay after uMhlathuze Stadium became one of the most difficult grounds for visiting teams during the previous campaign.

The club enjoyed a strong home record there, with South Africa’s traditional heavyweights Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns all failing to claim maximum points at the venue.

However, with the new season only one match old, Richards Bay must now make alternative arrangements for its fixtures over the next month. Milford, who have also relied on the stadium as their home base, are similarly waiting to discover whether their scheduled matches will be moved.

The PSL has not yet provided details of the issues identified during its inspection or said what work may be needed before the stadium can host top-flight football again.

Both clubs are therefore awaiting further communication from the league about the fixtures affected by the suspension. The decision creates an immediate logistical challenge for Richards Bay and Milford, with the next four weeks of their home schedules now subject to change.