Cape Town City to head back to SAFA after PSL DC sanction

As reported by the public broadcaster, The Citizens had earlier in the week been successful in getting league prosecutor Zola Majavu to investigate whether Gallants had erred in their registration of midfielder Monde Mpambaniso without a clearance.

City, having been relegated from the Betway Premiership following the play-offs in June, are thought to have believed this probe would result in Gallants being docked points and potentially opening the door for their reinstatement in the topflight. 

ICYMI: SAFA ruling opens door for Cape Town City potential topflight return

However, Majavu confirmed that, during the DC hearing late on Thursday night, Gallants pleaded guilty and were fined R200 000 – half of which (R100 000) was suspended – while Mpambaniso was cleared of any misconduct. 

The ruling is understood to have aggrieved City, who are now set to exercise their right to return to SAFA by lodging an appeal – short of going to the High Court before the start of the MTN8 this weekend and the Betway Premiership a few days later. 

The Motsepe Foundation Championship, where City will now play after being relegated, is only scheduled to kick-off towards the end of August. 

It remains to be seen whether this latest appeal – if it goes ahead as expected – will give City and chairman John Comitis the reprieve they are looking for.