World Athletics to send delegation to South Africa over ASA crisis

SABC Sport can confirm that the global athletics governing body will send a high-level delegation to South Africa next week to meet with ASA, the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC), the Sports Ministry and other key stakeholders.

In a letter seen by SABC Sport, World Athletics CEO Ron Ridgeon informed ASA CEO Terence Magogodela that the delegation, involving the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA), will conduct a fact-finding mission to better understand the problems facing the federation.

“World Athletics continues to follow the current governance situation within ASA and, following discussions with the Confederation of African Athletics, and ASA itself, a high-level delegation will travel to South Africa in the coming days to undertake a fact-finding mission,” the letter reads.

The delegation is expected to meet with the ASA board, SASCOC and Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie as World Athletics looks for a way to bring stability to the federation.

ASA president James Moloi has been suspended since October 2025, with his deputy John Mathane acting as president.

World Athletics has also warned ASA against taking major decisions while the governance issues are being investigated.

The move is intended to give the CAA enough time to complete its fact-finding mission and report back to World Athletics.

However, World Athletics has made it clear that the disciplinary process involving Moloi can continue.

“For the avoidance of doubt, this report does not extend to the ad hoc disciplinary process concerning Mr James Moloi,” the letter states, adding that the process can continue in line with the recommendations of the Southern African Confederation of Athletics president’s report and the principles of fairness and independence.

World Athletics says it remains ready to work with all stakeholders to restore stability and good governance at ASA.

The delegation could also have another important issue on its agenda.

McKenzie told SABC Sport earlier this week that he plans to host a major World Athletics event in South Africa next year, even without ASA’s approval.

With the governance crisis deepening, the arrival of the CAA delegation could be an important step towards finding a solution before the situation deteriorates further.