Maritzburg United reluctantly relocate to Durban

The club had been fighting to retain their home ground, the Harry Gwala Stadium, in Pietermaritzburg following their relegation from the South African top-flight in 2022/23.

They ultimately were forced to give way to Royal AM and spent last season having to travel to Chatsworth, in Durban, for their home games.

Team of Choice Chairman Farook Kadodia felt that this was the reason they failed to secure promotion back to the Premiership, at the first attempt after going down, and have now decided on a new start.

Maritzburg will now move to the coast and be known as Durban City.

A statement from Kadodia this week read: "This decision has been prompted by a lack of support from the leadership of our municipality.

"Despite our numerous efforts and attempts to engage in dialogue and find a solution regarding the use of a stadium for official league matches over the last 12 months, we have been unable to secure the necessary support to sustain the club in Pietermaritzburg and challenge for promotion back to the Premier Soccer League.

"As we say goodbye, we would like to express our deepest gratitude to our sponsors, partners, and most importantly, the 'Blue Army' â” the club's incredible supporters. Your unwavering support and passion have been the lifeblood of Maritzburg United.

"You have stood by us through victories and losses, through the good times and the challenging times, and your loyalty has been an integral part of our identity and success. 

"We will always cherish the memories and achievements we have shared together, along with the close ties with the local community that were always at the heart of everything we did at the Team of Choice."

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