Veteran German coach Ernst Middendorp has launched a scathing attack on the governance and integrity of the National First Division (NFD), calling for urgent reforms in South African football.
In an open letter addressed to the PSL, SAFA, and the broader football community, Middendorp expresses deep frustration with what he describes as “systemic malversation” in the second tier of the domestic game.
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Middendorp was in charge of Cape Town Spurs during the 2024/25 campaign, which ended in relegation from the Motsepe Foundation Championship to the amateur ranks – just one season after the club was demoted from the Premiership under his watch. His letter suggests that the issues go far beyond the pitch.
Below is the letter in full, as received:
OPEN LETTER: THE URGENT NEED TO RESTORE INTEGRITY IN THE NATIONAL FIRST DIVISION (NFD)
To the leadership of the Premier Soccer League (PSL), SAFA, and the broader South African football community,
I am writing this letter as a football professional with 31 years of experience and an advocate for fair competition, integrity, and the transformative power of soccer. It is with deep disappointment and concern that I must address the systemic issues that have affected the National First Division (NFD), both on and off the field.
It is crucial to acknowledge that the integrity of any league depends on the credibility of its administration and officiating. When these foundational elements falter, the ripple effects spread across every facet of the league, tarnishing its reputation and undermining its purpose. The players, who train tirelessly to showcase their talents, find themselves demoralized by external factors that overshadow their performances.
A League in Decline
The NFD, meant to be a fair and merit-driven platform, is plagued by malversation, manipulation, and political interference. Match officials frequently demonstrate questionable impartiality and competence, hinting at influence or even fixing. Such issues aren't isolated but part of a larger problem; our competition is compromised, leaving honest clubs disillusioned while irregular practices go unchecked.
Decisions made behind closed doors, whether about licensing, eligibility, discipline, or favoritism, imply that power and influence outweigh merit and rules. This undermines trust among league members, fans, sponsors, and future generations who see football as a path forward.
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A Call for Reform
The NFD should be a pillar of our developmental system — a league where professionalism, transparency, and meritocracy are not optional, but expected.
I urge PSL and SAFA to:
- Commission an independent review of NFD officiating and governance.
- Strengthen whistleblower protections.
- Enforce accountability and transparency in major decisions.
- Involve credible football professionals in oversight roles to rebuild trust.
This isn't about one team, season, or incident. Without trust in our competitions, progress and unity are impossible. Action is needed to save honest professionals (players, coaches, managers, officials) and preserve the game's integrity.
Sincerely,
Ernst Middendorp
