Spurs Ask SAFA to Reevaluate AmaZulu’s Acquisition of Bern
Cape Town Spurs have lodged an appeal with the South African Football Association’s (SAFA) Appeals Board regarding AmaZulu’s acquisition of midfielder Liam Bern, igniting a new wave of legal confrontations in South African football.
Cape Town Spurs Seek Transfer Compensation
AmaZulu recently acquired Bern as a free agent after the PSL Dispute Resolution Chamber (DRC) ruled in his favor. Nevertheless, Spurs contend that they are entitled to a transfer fee and have escalated the issue to SAFA.
This development was anticipated, as Spurs had previously taken similar actions against Kaizer Chiefs concerning former Spurs players Asanele Velebayi and Luke Baartman.
Reasons for Spurs’ Objection to Liam Bern’s Transfer
Bern encountered a protracted contractual dispute with Spurs, who initially obstructed his transfer to AmaZulu, claiming he was still under contract and ineligible for free agency.
However, Bern’s legal team, supported by AmaZulu, appealed to the PSL DRC, referencing a PSL regulation that nullifies contracts when a team is relegated to the ABC Motsepe League (the amateur division). With Spurs’ relegation at the end of the last season, Bern was considered qualified to declare his free agency.
Precedent Set by Velebayi and Baartman
Bern’s situation mirrors that of his former Spurs teammates, Velebayi and Baartman, who also sought free agency following the team’s relegation. Similar to Bern, both received favorable rulings at the DRC and later signed with Chiefs, although their eligibility to play remains suspended pending Spurs’ appeal.
As a result, AmaZulu is unable to utilize Bern until a definitive ruling is made by the SAFA Appeals Board.
Final Outcome of the SAFA Appeals Board Ruling
The Appeals Board serves as the ultimate stage of the legal proceedings. With a decision made, Spurs will have no further recourse for appeal.
If the ruling is in favor of AmaZulu and Bern, the midfielder will be permitted to play immediately. Conversely, if Spurs prevail, AmaZulu may need to pay a transfer fee or potentially lose the player altogether.
