Maritzburg United's future uncertain over stadium battle

The team of choice has been fighting with Umsunduzi Municipality over the venue following their relegation to the second division in the 2022/23 season.  Kadodia speaking exclusively with Ukhozi FM says they may be forced to sell their franchise.

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''I think it is a decision that obviously we have  to take, the reality is that we can't continue as Maritzburg United playing in Durban. To lose all your identity with even fans, now have to look at how do we attract fans in Durban. At the moment we are still hopeful of securing the charge to use Harry Gwala Stadium together with Royal Am for the upcoming season, if not the club will have to make some tough decisions going forward to see what is best for the franchise,'' said Kadodia.

Last season the Team of choice played all their home games in Durban, following the decision by the Municipality to give Royal AM the stadium and sponsor them. Kadodia says they do not have any other option, and the issue of the venue is deeper than that, having affected their financial status.

''I think the problem is quite deeper than that. For us not being able to play in Maritzburg, it is a decision the board of directors need to make, as to do we even continue as Maritzburg United. Last year we saw it is difficult for our fan base to travel to Durban, and playing away from your support base has a detrimental effect on the team,'' added Kadodia.

Last week the new MEC of Sport Mtomuhle Khawula had to intervene to fund solutions, it also understood that even the Government of the Province also want Maritzburg United and Royal AM to share the stadium. Kadodia says they do not have issues with Royal AM, the only people who need to sort things out is the Municipality.

''I think the discussion lies with the Municipality, it is not the facility that is owned by Royal Am, it is owned by the Municipality - we are in talks to have them allow us access to the stadium,'' concluded Kadodia.

Despite having a meeting last week, the CEO says as it stands the Umsunduzi Municipality has informed them that they will not grant them rights to use Harry Gwala Stadium. He says it will be a huge blow if they do not find solutions and insist that they do not mind sharing the stadium with Royal AM.

 Despite off the field challenges, Maritzburg United are still hard at work preparing for the new season in the Motsepe Foundation Championship. Kadodia says the team is having a good pre-season and they are looking forward to play in the KZN Premiers Cup on the weekend of the 27th of July. Where they will compete against AmaZulu FC, Golden Arrows, Royal AM, Richards Bay and Milford FC in Ulundi.