Royal AM players have returned to training following a tumultuous period that saw the club in limbo since January 2025. The KwaZulu-Natal-based team, known as Thwihli Thwahla, has been under the management of a curator appointed by SARS due to owner Shauwn Mkhize's failure to settle R40 million in taxes. Now, an unnamed businessman from Durban has successfully won the bid to purchase the club, prompting a fresh start for the players.
According to reports from SABC Sport, the bidding process attracted several contenders, including Mkhonto weSizwe MP David “Mazolman” Skhosana and a foreign investor linked to Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie. Ultimately, the Durban businessman emerged victorious, and the Premier Soccer League's executive committee is expected to confirm the ownership transfer soon.
The club, which has faced significant challenges this season, has had 13 of its matches postponed, including a crucial Nedbank Cup round of 32 clash against Milford FC. This match was ultimately awarded as a walkover to Milford FC, highlighting the disruption caused by the club's financial troubles.
Despite the ongoing uncertainties, the new owner has reportedly promised substantial bonuses to motivate the players as they strive to avoid relegation. Currently, Royal AM finds itself at the bottom of the 16-team premiership, having accumulated only eight points from 11 matches. Their last outing resulted in a disappointing 3-1 defeat against TS Galaxy on December 29, 2024.
The players were informed of the sale on March 25, 2025, and were ordered to return to training two days later. The club's future home matches remain uncertain, with discussions ongoing about whether they will continue to play at Harry Gwala Stadium in Pietermaritzburg or move their base to Durban.
As the new ownership awaits final approval from the PSL, the club's management is focused on addressing the backlog of games. Most teams in the Betway Premiership have played nearly double the matches of Royal AM, making it imperative for the club to catch up quickly. The PSL is expected to announce how the team will make up for lost time once the ownership transition is finalized.
In addition to the ownership changes, Royal AM continues to face a global FIFA transfer ban due to outstanding payments owed to Serbian striker Samir Nurkovic and Brazilian defender Ricardo Nascimento. This ban compounds the challenges the new management will need to navigate as they attempt to stabilize the club.
The new owner’s commitment to rewarding the players for avoiding relegation reflects a proactive approach to revitalizing the team’s morale. With the next fixture set for April 5, 2025, against Magesi FC, the pressure is on for the players to perform and reclaim their standing in the league.
As the Premier Soccer League gears up for the confirmation of the new ownership, fans and stakeholders alike are hopeful that this change will usher in a new era for Royal AM, one that can restore the club’s reputation and competitive edge in South African football.
