Durban City Earn Promotion to Betway Premiership Amid Drama and Determination
Durban – May 20, 2025
Durban City have officially clinched promotion to the Betway Premiership, following a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Cape Town Spurs on Sunday. The match, played at Athlone Stadium, Cape Town was meant to be a moment of celebration — a crowning occasion to mark their status as Motsepe Foundation Championship champions. But celebrations were temporarily put on ice due to a protest lodged by JDR Stars.
Off-Field Drama: The Magawana Dispute
However, the league trophy and official promotion announcement were withheld on Sunday due to an ongoing eligibility dispute. JDR Stars filed an official protest claiming that Saziso Magawana, a player fielded by Durban City, was incorrectly registered. This claim threatened to overshadow City’s historic campaign.
A disciplinary hearing by the PSL’s Disciplinary Committee (DC) was held on Tuesday at 16:30, where the matter was reviewed. The PSL DC dismissed JDR’s protest, confirming that Durban City had not violated any registration rules — clearing the path for their official promotion.
Shortly after, another hearing at 18:30 was scheduled — this time initiated by Cape Town Spurs, who echoed the same complaint regarding Magawana. However, after the earlier ruling, a similar outcome is expected, which would further solidify City’s position.
What This Means for the Playoffs
Assuming no reversal in the remaining hearing, Casric Stars and Orbit College will advance to the promotion/relegation playoffs, where they’ll face off against the team finishing 15th in the current Betway Premiership table.
A New Chapter for Durban City
This promotion marks a massive milestone for Durban City — formerly known as Maritzburg United — as they return to top-tier South African football. The rebranded club has weathered a tough season, showing consistency and resilience both on and off the field.
Head coach Thabo Ndlovu was visibly emotional after the hearing results:
“We fought on the pitch, and we trusted the process off it. Today, Durban football stands tall again.”
Looking Ahead
With their place in the 2025/26 Betway Premiership confirmed, Durban City now begin the work of preparing for top-flight competition — from reinforcing their squad to building a sustainable structure that ensures survival and growth in the PSL.
For now, the club, its fans, and the city of Durban can celebrate the return of elite football.