Royal AM’s troubles continue to mount as the PSL side faces legal and financial turmoil after failing to meet the court-ordered R12 million payment to former striker Samir Nurkovic. The club, owned by business mogul Shauwn Mkhize, is under increasing pressure due to a series of financial struggles, including unpaid wages, a FIFA-imposed transfer ban, and suspended fixtures.
Nurkovic’s Unpaid Settlement
According to Nurkovic’s lawyer, Dazor Lavic, the Serbian striker was owed substantial payments for his tenure with Royal AM, where his contract was worth:
- R5,040,000 for the first year (July 2022 – June 2023)
- R5,280,000 for the second year (July 2023 – June 2024)
- R5,520,000 for the optional third year (July 2024 – June 2025)
Despite the sizable contract, Nurkovic received just R245,943 in November 2022, three days after filing a claim with FIFA. Lavic stated that only a small portion of the R12 million balance has been paid, leaving Nurkovic, now playing for SuperSport United, waiting for the bulk of the settlement.
PSL Suspends Matches
The PSL has taken swift action, suspending Royal AM’s league and cup matches due to the club’s inability to fulfill financial obligations. This includes their highly anticipated fixture against Orlando Pirates scheduled for 23 January 2025.
Royal AM’s last match was a 3-1 loss to TS Galaxy on 29 December 2024. The club now finds itself only one point above bottom-placed Magesi FC, increasing the threat of relegation.
SARS Investigation and Transfer Ban
Adding to their woes, the club is under investigation by the South African Revenue Service (SARS) over a R40 million tax debt, further hampering operations. The financial crisis has also resulted in a FIFA-imposed transfer ban, stemming from unresolved payment issues involving both Samir Nurkovic and Ricardo Nascimento.
Legal and Financial Impact
Royal AM’s inability to meet its obligations has caused players and staff to down tools, highlighting the extent of the financial crisis. With unpaid wages, legal battles, and match suspensions, the club’s future in the PSL is increasingly uncertain.
What’s Next for Royal AM?
Royal AM’s immediate priorities include resolving the payment dispute with Samir Nurkovic, addressing their SARS investigation, and lifting the FIFA transfer ban. Failure to do so could lead to further legal actions, point deductions, or even relegation.
