SAFA explains delay in Bafana Bafana World Cup bonuses

SAFA said it appointed specialist legal and tax advisers in both jurisdictions, in line with guidance from FIFA, because of the complexity surrounding the applicable tax requirements.

The association has also revealed that progress has been made towards resolving the matter.

This includes SAFA obtaining an Employer Identification Number from the United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS), while its US-based specialists are finalising the necessary tax calculations and documentation.

The process of settling the applicable Mexican tax obligations is also reportedly nearing completion.

SAFA stressed that the delay does not affect other payments owed to members of the national team.

“SAFA confirms that a portion of the FWC26 prize money has been received. All allowances, fees and other amounts due to players and support staff have been settled,” the statement continued.

“The outstanding payments relate specifically to FWC26 bonuses which will be processed once the applicable tax requirements have been concluded.”

The clarification comes after Zungu publicly criticised SAFA for the delay, arguing that players should not have to wait for money they were promised for their performances at the World Cup.

Zungu described the situation as “embarrassing” and warned that executives responsible for the delay would have to account for their actions should he win the SAFA presidency.

His comments have added further pressure on the association with the SAFA elective congress scheduled for September 12, where Zungu will challenge incumbent president Danny Jordaan.

SAFA, however, has maintained that it remains committed to paying the bonuses and is working to complete the necessary processes as quickly as possible.

The association did not provide a specific date for when the bonuses will reflect in the players’ accounts, but said it would ensure that all legitimate amounts due are paid once the international tax requirements have been concluded.

The development leaves the focus now on how quickly SAFA can complete its US and Mexican tax obligations and release the outstanding World Cup bonuses to the players and support staff who helped Bafana make history at the tournament.