The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has suspended all fixtures at uMhlathuze Stadium for four weeks, forcing Richards Bay FC to seek an alternative venue for their upcoming home matches.
The ban will come into effect on 13 August 2026 following a recent league inspection that found the playing surface unfit for professional football.
Unsafe Pitch Forces PSL Action
According to the PSL, the pitch at uMhlathuze Stadium has been declared unplayable due to poor surface conditions and inadequate maintenance during the off-season.
League inspectors also raised concerns over player safety, stating that recently laid grass sods have not yet established sufficient root systems, creating an increased risk of injury.
As a result, no fixtures will be permitted at the venue until further notice.
Temporary Exemptions Granted
Despite the ban, the PSL has granted exemptions for two fixtures due to the short notice surrounding the decision.
Richards Bay’s league encounter against Polokwane City on 2 August and the scheduled fixture between Milford FC and Siwelele FC on 12 August will still be played at uMhlathuze Stadium.
The suspension will officially begin the following day.
Chiefs Clash Set to Move
The decision means Richards Bay’s upcoming Betway Premiership clash against Kaizer Chiefs on 26 August can no longer be played at uMhlathuze Stadium.
The Natal Rich Boys will now have to identify an alternative venue for the fixture, with further home matches also likely to be affected should the stadium remain unavailable.
Richards Bay are also scheduled to host Mamelodi Sundowns on 17 October and Orlando Pirates on 16 December, although those fixtures are expected to proceed at uMhlathuze Stadium if the necessary repairs are completed and approved by the PSL.
Municipality Given Four Weeks
Responsibility for restoring the playing surface now falls to the City of uMhlathuze Municipality, which owns the stadium.
The PSL has confirmed that another inspection will take place after four weeks to determine whether the venue meets the required standards for professional football and whether the suspension can be lifted.