Richards Bay FC Chairman Sfiso ‘Jomo' Biyela recently disclosed that he turned down an offer exceeding R70 million to sell the club's top-flight status, emphasizing his commitment to the club's “legacy” above financial incentives.
This revelation provides context to the journey of the Natal Rich Boyz, who have now cemented their place in the PSL for three consecutive seasons, a testament to their promotion as 2021/22 second-tier champions.
The KZN side has had financial issues, at times struggling to pay their players within the three seasons that they have spent in the top-flight.
Considering the status sale would perhaps make sense, however, Biyela says he had to keep the club for the Richards Bay community.
JOMO BIYELA – ‘THE LEGACY IS PRICELESS’
“I’ve got someone I won’t mention by name here, they sent me a message this morning [Tuesday], saying there’s a desperate club looking to buy in the top-flight,” said Biyela.
“They stated that they put up R60 million, if I sign, the money can kick it just the next day. And they also put R12 million or 15 million, it’ll be up to me if I take the status in the NFD. Think
“Think about it, it’s R72 million. The I asked them if they know what a legacy means. I said to them legacy is priceless, there’s no value you can table here, try elsewhere.
“How can we play outside Richards Bay for five years and just when people are excited that we’re coming back to town, and they we, out of the blue, sell the club.
“We all need money but we cannot make money at the expense of people who have prayed and supported us.
“Where would I live? I’d have to run away from [people of Richards Bay] and stay in Johannesburg.
“What we’re trying to say is we really value this club, it’s not ours, it’s for the community of King Cetshwayo, it’s for uMhlathuze. We are proud to represent this community.”
