South Africa: Sports Minister bans 4 federations from tournament bids

The Sports Minister of South Africa has banned four of the country’s sport federations from bidding for major tournaments.

The decision comes after they failed to create enough opportunities for black players.

“I have therefore resolved to revoke the privilege of Athletic South Africa, Cricket South Africa, Netball South Africa and the South African Rugby Union to host and bid for any major and mega international tournaments in the republic of South Africa. As a consequence of the aforementioned federation not meeting their own set transformation targets with immediate effect,” Sports Minister Fikile Mbalula said.

The South African government has long asked that the country’s rugby union creates more opportunities for black players.

That has been subtly overlooked.

“I will review this decision when considering the results of the 2016/ 2017 transformation barometer. In respect of the South African Football Association, I am delighted that SAFA has met its transformation target,” the minister added.

None of the federations have commented publicly on the matter.