SMSA backs McKenzie’s push for accountability in Soweto Derby safety and security adherence

By Velile Mnyandu
30th October 2026

The past few Soweto Derbies have been marred by poor traffic control around the FNB Stadium precinct as well as ticketing challenges, but Stadium Management South Africa (SMSA) has thanked Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie for stepping in to try and address these challenges.

At the beginning of this week, McKenzie visited the Calabash ahead of tomorrow’s Soweto Derby.

McKenzie, himself was stuck in traffic last season on his way to the derby, and SMSA CEO Bertie Grobbelaar says all the Minister is asking for is accountability from all the stakeholders…

"The minister raised awareness for accountability, and again if fingers are pointed at Stadium Management then it's still a good thing because we accept accountability and responsibility where it sits, but then it must be applied across the board. I'm happy that after a very negative report there is going to be positive outcomes going forward."

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The SASREA Act of 2010 governs sporting and entertainment events in the country, and it has been amended. The act protects all stakeholders in the game and holds them accountable.

Grobbelaar makes a valid point that fans are never prosecuted, even when the Act has been breached...

"Fans are also stakeholders so there must be accountability and consequences for the fans at these events. 90% of the fans are there to enjoy the game and behave accordingly so that we can ensure a safe and secure event.

"We are currently dictated by the 10% or less who are not willing to comply, and we need to deal with that. The time has arrived for there to be an open and honest conversation about this."

Grobbelaar says managing traffic congestion is one of the biggest challenges around the Soweto Derby, and in the past they have made some plans to address this, but nothing has improved.

He even says people with fake tickets must be dealt with.

Interestingly, Grobbelaar has also warned fans to be careful when buying tickets on the black market and to double-check them, as some are buying tickets for public viewing, thinking they're for the game.

SABC Sport can confirm and has seen some of those tickets for a Carling Knockout game between Chiefs and TS Galaxy, just a few days ago at FNB Stadium...