Royal AM ambassador Mama Joy, whose real name is Joy Chauke, has expressed deep sadness over the rumored sale of Royal AM Football Club due to the owner MaMkhize’s tax-related financial troubles. The club has reportedly been put on the line by the South African Revenue Service (SARS) because of unpaid taxes.
On Monday evening, fans and supporters were shocked by reports that Royal AM was facing imminent sale. The news has caused widespread concern among Royal AM supporters, with Mama Joy voicing her heartbreak on social media.
Taking to her X (formerly Twitter) account, the renowned South African superfan posted a heartfelt message along with a photo of herself standing beside two gentlemen. In her post, she reflected on the journey she shared with Royal AM and praised MaMkhize, expressing her love and respect for the club’s embattled owner.
“My children know where we come from, and they know this is just one of the seasons. With them, I don’t have any fear that maybe one day they will leave me, together forever. Life goes on, guys, but I still respect and love U Ma. Thanks, Mamkhize Thwihli,” Mama Joy wrote.
My Children knows where we come from and they know this is just 1 of the seoson ,,,, with them I don’t have any fear that maybe 1 day they will leave me ,,,, together forever ,,, life goes on guys ,,, but I still respect and love U Ma,,Thanks Mamkhize Thwihli pic.twitter.com/NrsjCIyi3J
— MamaJoy Chauke (@JoyChauke5) February 18, 2025
What’s Next for Mama Joy?
Mama Joy’s future affiliation in the football world has become a topic of discussion among fans. She previously gained nationwide recognition for her unwavering support of Orlando Pirates before joining Royal AM. Now, with the potential sale of the club looming, many fans are wondering if she will return to the Buccaneers or find another club to support.
As of now, Mama Joy has not made any announcements regarding her plans for the future. However, her dedication to the club and its journey suggests she is standing by MaMkhize’s side through this difficult time.
MaMkhize’s Mounting Tax Debt
The financial issues that have led to the rumored sale of Royal AM are tied to MaMkhize’s ongoing battles with SARS. Reports indicate that MaMkhize, whose companies fall under the Zikhulise Group, now owes more than R40 million in unpaid taxes.
Two years ago, it was revealed that MaMkhize’s tax debt stood at R12.7 million. However, the financial burden grew significantly following a court ruling that required Royal AM to pay the full contract of former player Samir Nurkovic. This ruling reportedly added another R24 million to the debt, driving the total to over R37 million.
Since then, additional penalties and interest have pushed MaMkhize’s debt past the R40 million mark. This financial situation is said to have forced SARS to take action, putting the club up for sale to recoup the unpaid taxes.
Sports Personalities React
Sports commentator Andile Ncube weighed in on the matter on Monday night, taking to Twitter to express his sadness over the situation. “A sad day for our football. After months of speculation, it’s done. SARS has won, and Royal AM will be sold,” Ncube tweeted.
breaking !!!
A sad day for our football, after months of speculations, it’s done. SARS have won and Royal AM will be sold
Cry my beloved PSL @SNAWA_MetroFM tonight 18:00
— Andile Ncube (@AndileNcube) February 17, 2025
However, despite the rumors and growing speculation, no official statement has been released by Royal AM or MaMkhize to confirm the sale. Fans remain anxious for more clarity about the future of the club and its owner.
A Clouded Future for Royal AM
Royal AM’s rise in South African football was swift and impressive under MaMkhize’s leadership. The club, based in KwaZulu-Natal, quickly gained a passionate following and earned respect on the pitch. MaMkhize herself became a beloved figure, known for her larger-than-life personality and dedication to the sport.
If the sale is confirmed, it will mark a significant turning point for the club and its supporters. Fans are left wondering what the next chapter will hold for Royal AM and whether MaMkhize can resolve her financial challenges in time to save the team.
Support and Uncertainty
As the dust settles on the initial reports, one thing is clear: Mama Joy’s loyalty to MaMkhize and Royal AM remains steadfast. Whether or not the club is sold, she has demonstrated unwavering dedication to the journey they’ve shared together. In the coming weeks, fans hope for more clarity and, potentially, a resolution that preserves the club’s legacy. Until then, Royal AM supporters will wait and hope for the best outcome.
