The PSL's silly season becomes even sillier with legal wrangles on the increase

The post-Premiership period is often referred to as the 'silly season' in South African football — a time typically characterised by rampant speculation, transfer news, and managerial changes.

However, this year, the tenor of the silly season has shifted dramatically, as the PSL finds itself ensnared in a bewildering series of legal disputes that are overshadowing the traditional excitement.

Less than a week ago, the PSL finally resolved the contentious matter surrounding an abandoned match between SuperSport United and Lamontville Golden Arrows that occurred in March. The game, played a few days ago, ended in a 1–1 draw.

This result confirmed that SuperSport retained their Premiership status. Meanwhile, Cape Town City, who languished in 15th place in the revised 15-team league, will now face the daunting challenge of the annual PSL promotion/relegation play-offs.

As if that scenario were not enough, the intrigue thickened with ongoing legal challenges from clubs within the Motsepe Foundation Championship.

Cape Town Spurs and JDR Stars have taken their battle against the apparent legality of Durban City’s status as winners — due to the suspected use of an ineligible player — from PSL arbitration to the jurisdiction of Safa. There remains cautious optimism that this issue could also be resolved within the week.

There is also talk that other National First Division clubs are keeping a close watch on proceedings, as some may have been impacted when playing against Durban City.

Just as the narrative appeared set to reach a climax, Cape Town City made headlines once more over the weekend by questioning the PSL's authority to allow the completion of the SuperSport versus Lamontville Golden Arrows match, which had been halted at half-time due to a power failure.

This action not only reignites the already fiery atmosphere but also further complicates the league’s agenda as it grapples with these pressing sagas over the coming days.

City chairman John Comitis said that, according to PSL rules, SuperSport should have forfeited the three points, as they did not have power backup — such as a generator — when the lights at the stadium went out.

“SuperSport defaulted, and they should lose the three points. That’s how football works. We have to challenge this; it was a wrong decision,” said Comitis.

He added that he could not say when his club’s case would be decided.

Over the past two weeks, the 'silly season' narrative has evolved into a saga where the rulebooks are being re-examined and the integrity of the PSL is tested under legal scrutiny.

These mounting disputes have transformed the PSL’s off-season into anything but silly. Instead of clubs preparing for new campaigns or reshuffling squads, administrators and legal teams have taken centre stage.

What was once a period of anticipation and renewal has become a high-stakes legal battleground, with decisions made in boardrooms likely to shape league standings, reputations, and even future governance.

If unresolved, these challenges risk undermining the credibility of the league itself. The PSL now stands at a crossroads: either reaffirm the authority and clarity of its rules or face a future in which uncertainty and litigation become the new norm in South African football.