South Africa's Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has announced a forensic investigation into the financial affairs of the South African Football Association (SAFA). This decision follows the department's advance of R5 million to SAFA to address cash flow issues that had led to delayed payments for both Bafana Bafana and Banyana Banyana players and staff.

The R5 million advance, drawn from SAFA's anticipated government grant for the next fiscal year, was intended to settle outstanding match fees owed to players and coaches. Minister McKenzie emphasized that accepting government funds obligates SAFA to transparency and accountability, stating, "Once you take my money as the minister... we have a right to say something." Concerns have been raised about SAFA's financial management, especially in comparison to other national sports organizations.

Minister McKenzie highlighted that while organizations like SA Rugby and Cricket South Africa maintain substantial reserves and meet their financial obligations promptly, SAFA has struggled to pay relatively modest amounts. He remarked, "SA Cricket got R800 million in the bank... how come SAFA can't pay R4.9 million?" The minister also expressed concern over the potential impact on team morale and national reputation, noting that failure to compensate players and coaches could lead to talent loss and damage South Africa's international standing. He stated, "Countries that lost, that didn't qualify have paid their players... our coaches have not been paid, our players have not been paid."

The forensic investigation aims to uncover the root causes of SAFA's financial difficulties and to develop a turnaround strategy to prevent future issues. Minister McKenzie has indicated that the investigation will be conducted independently by the department to ensure objectivity and thoroughness.