MaMkhize’s Royal AM faces sale

It seems the challenges are piling up for Shauwn Mkhize, affectionately known as MaMkhize, the celebrated multimillionaire and owner of Royal AM. She is currently embroiled in a legal battle with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) over mounting tax debts and the control of her beloved football club, Royal AM.

MaMkhize’s Legal Battle with SARS

MaMkhize’s latest legal setback came when she failed to win her bid to take full control of Royal AM. The club, based in KwaZulu-Natal, has been under curatorship since early 2024 due to her escalating debt, now reported to be over R40 million. Her financial woes have also affected Royal AM’s operations, leading to postponed matches and uncertainty over the club’s future.

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has yet to issue any detailed updates on Royal AM’s fixture schedule, further fueling speculation about the club’s fate. Since December 2024, the club has not played a single match, leaving fans in limbo.

Potential Sale or Liquidation Looms

Reports emerged last week suggesting that the court-appointed curator overseeing Royal AM’s affairs may submit a recommendation for the club to be sold. If no buyer is found, liquidation could be the next step. This development follows SARS’s recent legal victory, giving the tax authority more control over Royal AM’s future.

However, there may be a glimmer of hope. According to reports, a buyer has shown interest in the club. In light of this, the curator has reportedly recommended that the PSL hold off on expelling Royal AM to allow the sale to proceed. A critical meeting is reportedly scheduled for Friday, which may determine the club’s fate.

Sports Community Reacts

Sports personality Andile Ncube confirmed the speculation in a viral social media post. On his X (formerly Twitter) account, Ncube shared his dismay at the news: “A sad day for our football, after months of speculations, it’s done. SARS have won, and Royal AM will be sold. Cry, my beloved PSL.”

Ncube’s post quickly gained traction, with thousands of reactions and comments from fans and followers of the PSL. Despite the widespread discussions, no official statement has been issued by MaMkhize or Royal AM regarding the reports.

Escalating Debt and Asset Seizures

MaMkhize’s financial troubles have been brewing for some time. Two years ago, her debt to SARS was reported to be R12.7 million. However, the situation worsened dramatically when the club was ordered to pay former player Samir Nurkovic’s contract in full, which added millions to her already hefty financial obligations. The debt eventually ballooned to over R37 million, and further penalties and interest have pushed it past the R40 million mark.

Earlier this year, MaMkhize’s luxurious R20 million La Lucia mansion was raided by SARS as part of their efforts to recover the debt. Reports indicate that several expensive movable assets were attached during the raid. These actions signaled SARS’s intent to recover the unpaid taxes by any means necessary.

Uncertain Future for MaMkhize and Royal AM

The potential sale of Royal AM marks a significant turning point for both MaMkhize and the club. MaMkhize, known for her larger-than-life personality and dedication to South African football, has become a beloved figure in the sports community. However, her current legal and financial troubles threaten to overshadow her achievements.

For Royal AM fans, the uncertainty surrounding the club’s future is disheartening. The prospect of the club being sold or liquidated is a tough pill to swallow for supporters who have stood by the team through its ups and downs.

Waiting for Clarity

As the scheduled meeting approaches, fans, players, and stakeholders are eagerly awaiting official confirmation about Royal AM’s fate. Whether the club will be sold to a new owner or face liquidation remains to be seen. In the meantime, all eyes remain on MaMkhize and her next moves as she navigates one of the most challenging periods of her career.