South African Football Association president, Danny Jordaan, has been released on bail following accusations of using Safa’s funds for personal purposes.
The allegations, which emerged from an investigation by the country’s organised crime unit, Hawks, involve charges of fraud and theft related to Safa finances between 2014 and 2018, reportedly amounting to 1.3 million rand (around $72,000 or £57,000).
Jordaan, now 73, allegedly hired a private security firm for his personal protection and engaged a public relations company, both without securing the required Safa board approval.
Known for his pivotal role in bringing the 2010 FIFA World Cup to South Africa, Jordaan has led Safa since 2013.
His arrest took place on Wednesday, followed by a court appearance at Palm Ridge Magistrates’ Court in Johannesburg.
Alongside Jordaan, Safa’s chief financial officer, Gronie Hluyo, and businessman Trevor Neethling also appeared in court.
Both men were granted bail, with strict instructions to avoid contact with potential state witnesses who may testify in the case. The court has scheduled a follow-up hearing for December 5.
On Tuesday, Jordaan had reportedly filed a court application to block his arrest, submitting an affidavit that denied any wrongdoing.
His attempt to prevent the arrest came in response to the March raid by Hawks on Safa’s Johannesburg headquarters, where authorities confiscated digital equipment and various documents as part of the investigation.
A Safa representative confirmed to BBC Sport Africa that additional information regarding the case was not available.
Meanwhile, Jordaan, who is believed to be seeking a fourth term as Safa president, has consistently denied the charges, emphasizing his innocence.
Amidst these allegations, Jordaan’s leadership has come under increasing criticism, with detractors pointing to what they see as long-standing issues within South African football, including the national team’s struggle to qualify for the World Cup since 2010 and a worsening grassroots football system.
Calls for his resignation have grown louder, with critics arguing that new leadership is necessary to address the sport’s challenges in South Africa.
