/ 4 March 2011

Sundowns fined R500 000

Mamelodi Sundowns has been slapped with a R500 000 fine, the Premier Soccer League Disciplinary Committee (PSL DC) said in a statement on Friday.

The club pleaded guilty on two charges, for spectator misbehaviour and bringing the league into disrepute following incidents which occurred in Downs’ 1-1 draw against Platinum Stars at Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville in January.

“They were fined R500 000, half of which is suspended for 12 months on condition they are not found guilty of the same offence during the period of suspension,” the PSL DC said.

The balance of R250 000 was to be used for setting up of a fund, of which the primary objective would be to develop and implement an educational programme to be approved by the PSL, within six months of the order, which was brought down on Tuesday.

If the club failed to do so, the suspended amount would become effective.

“The president of Sundowns, Patrice Motsepe, is ordered to jointly address a press conference with a designated official of the league within 10 days of this order, unless appeal processes are undertaken,” the PSL DC said.

Sundowns were also ordered to submit a written apology to be published both on the club’s and the league’s websites.

A similar case involving Orlando Pirates was postponed this week, according to the PSL DC.

The club also faced charges of spectator misbehaviour and bringing the league into disrepute during the Buccaneers’ 2-0 win over Golden Arrows at Chatsworth Stadium in Durban in January. — Sapa