In a dramatic twist to the Eastern Cape ABC Motsepe League saga, Judge Bloem of the Grahamstown High Court has ruled that the province’s decider match be played under protest, pending the finalization of an urgent application brought by Sinenkani FC.
The court directive comes as Sinenkani FC seeks to have the match declared null and void, citing an earlier interdict issued by Judge Rusi which explicitly prohibited the decider from going ahead until the dispute over Rule 30.1 is resolved.
Despite the interdict, the South African Football Association (SAFA) and other respondents pushed forward with preparations for the fixture—now prompting questions around their alleged contempt of court.
As per the latest order, the outcome of the contested match may be rendered irrelevant depending on the review hearing scheduled for Wednesday, 26 June 2025. The respondents are also expected to explain why they should not be held liable for the costs of the court application.
“This is a step in the right direction. We view this as a victory because if the court rules in our favor, the game and its results will be nullified,” said a representative of Sinenkani FC.
The legal battle has intensified tensions in the province’s football circles, spotlighting governance, procedural irregularities, and respect for judicial processes in local sport.
