PSL Proposes ABC Motsepe League Expansion to Replace Royal AM in Top Division

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) is set to make an unprecedented request to the South African Football Association (SAFA) to promote three ABC Motsepe League teams for the 2024/25 season, following Royal AM’s controversial exit from the Motsepe Foundation Championship.

Key Details:
• The move aims to maintain an 18-team second division after Royal AM’s disqualification
• Would mark the first three-team promotion from the ABC Motsepe League in history
• SAFA’s Competitions Committee must approve the exceptional measure

Background:
The crisis emerged when Royal AM failed to meet PSL compliance requirements, leaving the Motsepe Foundation Championship with just 15 teams. Normally, only two teams earn promotion from the third-tier ABC Motsepe League each season.

Stakeholder Reactions:

• PSL Chairman: “This ensures competitive integrity while creating opportunities”

• ABC Motsepe Club Owner: “We welcome the chance, but need clarity on selection criteria”

• SAFA Official: “We’ll review sporting merit before deciding”

Potential Impact:
✓ Maintains 18-team professional second division
✓ Triples promotion chances for semi-pro clubs
✓ Sets precedent for future league restructuring

Next Steps:

1. Formal PSL submission to SAFA (expected by Friday)

2. Emergency SAFA executive meeting next week

3. Possible appeals process for excluded ABC Motsepe teams

The decision could dramatically reshape South Africa’s football pyramid, with analysts noting it may accelerate long-discussed reforms of the national league structure.

Clarification: The Betway Premiership (PSL top division) remains unaffected at 16 teams. This proposal specifically addresses the second-tier Motsepe Foundation Championship.

Final Thought: As South African football grapples with administrative challenges, this creative solution could either resolve the immediate crisis – or open new controversies about competitive fairness.