UNCOOPERATIVE GOVERNANCE: Nelson Mandela Bay’s R5m pitch problem — World Cup stadium loses two PSL games

Two Chippa United home games have been relocated from Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium due to an unfinished new pitch. A local advocacy group alleges the loss exceeds R5 million and demands accountability. The stadium failed to host two Premier Soccer League matches after renovation delays, and the city's sponsorship with Chippa United expired without renewal.

Mayibuye Civic Movement president Tukela Zumani and the city's sport, recreation, arts and culture minister warn that the stadium risks becoming a white elephant without premier matches. The sponsorship deal was never renewed after the committee rejected the proposal, leaving its future uncertain. The latest incident saw the stadium miss Chippa United games against Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns in August and September due to the pitch not being ready.

The maintenance work included resurfacing the inner bowl pitch, with construction starting in June and expected to take 14 weeks. Zumani wrote to national government after receiving unsatisfactory replies from MBDA CEO Pierre Voges, acting City Manager Lonwabo Ngoqo, and Mayor Babalwa Lobishe on September 16. He claims the direct financial loss to the city is over R5 million, including indirect losses from sport tourism and other economic factors.

The mayor argues there's a clear failure of leadership, planning, oversight, and consequence management by those responsible for protecting the stadium. The civic movement seeks a full written report on the pitch maintenance program, disclosure of all communications related to the issue, a financial loss calculation, a consequence management plan, and assurances for future fixture protection.