Nelson Mandela Bay clashes with Chippa Mpengesi over decision to move Kaizer Chiefs match to East London

Chippa United has found itself embroiled in a controversy regarding the potential relocation of their DStv Premiership match against Kaizer Chiefs to East London next month.

The decision to move the fixture has raised concerns and sparked disapproval from Nelson Mandela Bay officials, who claim it would breach the agreement between the municipality and the club.

Bassie Kamana, the political head of sports, recreation, arts, and culture in Nelson Mandela Bay, expressed his dismay over the proposed relocation, stating, “We don’t endorse it. It’s a shock that we have to receive such news, and it’s also a disappointment.”

Kamana emphasized that according to their agreement with Chippa United, high-profile games, such as the match against Kaizer Chiefs, should be played in Nelson Mandela Bay, not in East London.

The controversy unfolded after Chippa United’s boss, Siviwe Mpengesi, held a media conference in East London to announce the upcoming fixtures at the Buffalo City Stadium, with the clash against Kaizer Chiefs scheduled for April 6 being highlighted as a major drawcard.

Despite the club’s excitement and the subsequent statement inviting football supporters to witness the spectacle, the decision to move the match has stirred discontent.

Kamana further revealed that the delay in Chippa United receiving their annual grant from the municipality might have influenced the club’s decision to relocate the game.

The R13.5 million yearly sponsorship, which includes a R6 million sponsorship and an anchor tenant agreement, has reportedly not been disbursed to the club due to their failure to submit audited financial statements.


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