Bafana Bafana: SAFA Clears the Air on AFCON 2023 Player Bonus Saga After Historic Third Place Finish

• SAFA have addressed the doubts surrounding Bafana Bafana's AFCON bonuses
• South Africa won around R46.9 million after clinching third in the AFCON 2023
• All payments will be made to the players once prize money from CAF is received

The South African Football Association (SAFA) has stepped forward to address the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the allocation of AFCON 2023 bonuses for the Bafana Bafana players.

Following reports hinting at payment disputes, SAFA issued a statement, shedding light on the financial compensation matter.

After an impressive performance at the tournament in Cote d'Ivoire, where South Africa secured third place, earning approximately R46.9 million, questions emerged regarding the distribution of bonuses among the players.

Upon the team's return from Abidjan, SAFA President Danny Jordaan initially remained tight-lipped about the bonus payments.

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However, in a statement released on Friday, February 16, SAFA clarified that a contractual agreement was reached between the association and the team's senior players regarding bonus payments. The specifics of this agreement, including the exact amounts, were kept confidential. SAFA stressed that all parties involved were satisfied with the terms before the team departed for AFCON.

"We wish to confirm that a contract was signed between the Association and the senior players representing the team where the payments and bonuses were agreed upon," said SAFA, as reported by Far Post.

Furthermore, SAFA outlined the process for disbursing the AFCON bonuses. They confirmed that payments would be made to the players once prize money from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) is received. Any remaining funds would be directed towards football development within the country, mainly supporting junior national teams lacking sponsorship.

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Uncertainty around Bafana player bonuses

Despite earning a substantial amount from their AFCON success, SAFA President Jordaan refrained from disclosing the exact bonus figures for the players. Controversy had arisen before the tournament when he initially mentioned a R7 million bonus for winning the tournament. However, he later clarified that this was a misunderstanding regarding currencies.

"If they win, they get R7-million. If they lose, they get nothing. We want the team to focus and perform. We have, over a period of time, settled this team, and we don't want to waste time discussing unnecessary stuff,” he said, as quoted by News24.

Throughout inquiries about the bonus amounts, Jordaan reiterated that the figures depended on CAF and the team's performance. He stressed the importance of the team's focus and performance.

Led by Belgian coach Hugo Broos, Bafana received a warm welcome upon returning to the OR Tambo International Airport, celebrating their bronze medal victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo.

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Despite lingering questions about bonuses, SAFA's statement aims to provide clarity and transparency regarding the financial compensation for the players' outstanding performance at the tournament in Abidjan.

SAFA President opens up on fights with Hugo Broos

Sports Brief reported that Jordaan commended the spirit of coach Hugo Broos, shedding light on their occasional clashes within the FA.

He expressed gratitude for the 71-year-old’s unwavering commitment following the national team's return.

The seasoned Belgian coach assumed the helm at Bafana in 2021.