Spurs Urge SAFA to Reevaluate AmaZulu’s Acquisition of Bern
Cape Town Spurs have filed an appeal with the South African Football Association’s (SAFA) Appeals Board regarding the signing of midfielder Liam Bern by AmaZulu, sparking a new wave of legal challenges in South African football.
Cape Town Spurs Seek Transfer Compensation
AmaZulu has recently acquired Bern as a free agent after the PSL Dispute Resolution Chamber (DRC) ruled in his favor. However, Spurs contend that they are entitled to a transfer fee and have brought the issue to the attention of SAFA.
This development was anticipated, as Spurs had previously engaged in similar actions against Kaizer Chiefs regarding former players Asanele Velebayi and Luke Baartman.
Reasons for Spurs’ Opposition to Liam Bern’s Transfer
Bern encountered a protracted contractual issue with Spurs, who initially obstructed his transfer to AmaZulu, arguing that he remained under contract and was not eligible for free agency.
Nonetheless, Bern’s legal representatives, with support from AmaZulu, appealed to the PSL DRC, referencing a PSL rule that nullifies contracts when a team is relegated to the ABC Motsepe League (the amateur division). Following Spurs’ relegation at the conclusion of the last season, Bern was deemed eligible to announce his free agency.
Precedent Established by Velebayi and Baartman
Bern’s situation mirrors that of his former teammates, Velebayi and Baartman, who similarly sought free agency after the team’s relegation. Like Bern, both received favorable outcomes at the DRC and later signed with Chiefs, although their ability to compete is currently pending Spurs’ appeal.
As a result, AmaZulu is unable to field Bern until a final decision is rendered by the SAFA Appeals Board.
Conclusion of the SAFA Appeals Board Ruling
The Appeals Board serves as the concluding stage of the legal proceedings. Once a determination is made, Spurs will have no further recourse for appeal.
If the ruling supports AmaZulu and Bern, the midfielder will be permitted to participate without delay. Conversely, if Spurs succeed, AmaZulu may be required to pay a transfer fee or risk losing the player entirely.
