The recent scandal involving Safa president Danny Jordaan, who is now accused of fraud from 2014 to 2018, has shone a harsh light on the questionable practices that can taint the world of football. Once celebrated for his leading role in organising the World Cup, Jordaan now finds himself at the centre of serious accusations that are sullying his reputation and raising questions about the integrity of the sport.
When I was appointed as Fatshimetrie’s correspondent for the 2010 World Cup, I had the opportunity to meet Danny Jordaan on several occasions. Despite his responsibilities and involvement in the event, he sometimes seemed overwhelmed, even distracted. These warning signs were not necessarily indicative of deeper problems at the time, but in retrospect, they hint at potential flaws in his management.
We discussed a range of topics, some trivial, some more serious. Jordaan had told me that he was a slow-moving, average cricketer, which seemed almost symbolic of his approach to life. His unkempt appearance and tired demeanor suggested that he was constantly under pressure, juggling his various responsibilities.
The tide began to turn after the World Cup, when revelations of match-fixing involving the national team emerged. These scandals exposed unscrupulous practices that undermined confidence in South African football. Over time, it became clear that Safa, under Jordaan’s presidency, was dysfunctional and inefficient, fuelling rumours of corruption and favouritism.
Jordaan’s links to controversial football figures such as Chuck Blazer and Jack Warner also attracted attention. Their involvement in shady deals and financial scandals helped tarnish the image of Fifa and its leaders. The dubious practices of these individuals, using aliases and shell companies to conceal their fraudulent dealings, have sparked outrage and dismay.
The African Diaspora affair, where funds were fraudulently diverted, illustrates the depth of governance and transparency problems within Safa and Fifa. The revelations of embezzlement and dodgy deals highlight the need for far-reaching reform to restore trust in world football.
Ultimately, the Jordaan affair is not just an isolated case, but exposes the systemic failings that persist in the world of football. It is imperative that action is taken to clean up the sport and ensure its integrity. Football fans around the world deserve a fair and transparent game, free from the shenanigans and scandals that tarnish its reputation.