A Russian businessman is among several parties vying to acquire Royal AM’s Premier Soccer League (PSL) status, with a consortium reportedly planning to revive Bloemfontein Celtic if the purchase is successful.
The deadline for bid submissions was set for Friday at 1:00 p.m., with interested buyers required to place a deposit of one million rand.
Sources indicate that the Russian investor remains keen on the acquisition, aligning with previous comments from South Africa’s Sports Minister, Gayton McKenzie, who supported efforts to reestablish Celtic in Bloemfontein.
Multiple bidders emerge
Several entities have expressed interest, including a North West business consortium that has tabled a R21 million bid.
Additionally, David Skhosana and his associate have submitted an offer, while former Bidvest Wits CEO George Mogotsi is also reportedly in the running.
Amid Royal AM’s uncertain future, the PSL is considering a “force majeure” decision, which could see no teams relegated this season.
Instead, two teams could be promoted next season—pending approval from the league’s executive committee.
Financial troubles threaten club’s future
Royal AM has been on the brink of liquidation or sale for the past month.
A court-appointed receiver recommended selling the club as the preferred solution, though chairwoman Shauwn Mkhize had initially resisted relinquishing control.
However, reports suggest that she has now dropped her legal challenge against the club’s auction process, allowing the sale to proceed.
The South African Revenue Service (SARS), which has been overseeing the financial proceedings, was contacted for comment but did not provide any updates on the situation.
PSL and sponsorship fallout
The crisis surrounding Royal AM has caused embarrassment for the PSL, leading to a Board of Governors meeting last month.
Subsequently, the league ruled that Royal AM would be excluded from the Nedbank Cup Round of 32 clash against Milford FC.
Additionally, all 19 of the club’s remaining Betway Premiership matches have been suspended.
Royal AM’s struggles stem from a tax dispute, with SARS seizing assets in November due to an outstanding debt of nearly R40 million.
The financial strain led to player salaries for December being delayed until January, while the PSL suspended monthly subsidies, citing concerns over Betway’s sponsorship visibility.
The club last played on December 29, suffering a 3-1 defeat to TS Galaxy.
They currently sit bottom of the Betway Premiership table with just eight points from 11 matches, leaving their future in professional football hanging in the balance.
