Government on Wednesday finally gave the PSL the green light to resume and it couldn’t have come sooner for Cape Town City.
With the coronavirus lockdown stalling football in South Africa since March, City has come under serious financial difficulties.
But sports minister Nathi Mthethwa gave a shot in City chairman John Comitis’ arm with his announcement that league bosses’ plans to restart the game have been approved.
The statement reads: “The plans of the Premier Soccer League have been approved. The plans have… in some instances exceeded the required protocol for a safe return to training and to play in a [safe bio-zone].”
With the wait coming to an end, Comitis is counting the cost of the coronavirus crisis.
DECISION: Nathi Mthethwa
He tells IOL: “Listen, it hasn’t been easy. A couple of our sponsors have already pulled out, leaving us with expenses that we can’t cover.
“Thank God the PSL still continues to pay grants, otherwise we will be in serious trouble.”
Comitis adds that main shirt sponsor SportsPesa have not paid them during lockdown.
The City boss explains: “SportsPesa have not yet indicated whether they will remain with us next season. During this Covid-19 period, they did not make any of their payments.
“We will have to consult with them at the end of every month.
“We have a great relationship. Hopefully we will get through it.”