Why South African football must sever ties with Israeli clubs in Nelson Mandela's spirit
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In the past, Thembinkosi Fanteni, Bevan Fransman, Tsepo Masilela, Mihlali Mayambela, Dino Ndlovu, Siyabonga Nkosi, Zama Rambuwane, and Siyanda Xulu have all played in that country.
Abrahams' move comes at a time when there are growing calls for the Middle Eastern nation to be isolated on the sporting stage, much like South Africa was during apartheid.
The country is currently involved in what the South African government describes as a genocide against the people of Palestine. In 2023, they approached the International Court of Justice to open a case against Israel's continued conduct in the Gaza Strip that resulted in a humanitarian crisis and mass killings.
As recently as two days ago, 81 people, including 31 aid workers, were killed in an airstrike in Gaza conducted by the Israeli Defence Force.
According to multiple organisations, including the United Nations, aid agencies, and human rights groups, Israel is actively blocking humanitarian aid into Gaza. As a result, thousands of people, including children and newborn babies, are facing starvation.
South Africa has received praise for its principled stance against Israel, with numerous other countries formally endorsing the case against Israel. PSL clubs continuing to sell players to Israel is a betrayal of what the country stands for.
During apartheid, several countries cut sporting ties with South Africa, leading to an almost two-decade-long isolation. Apartheid South Africa was barred from the Olympics from 1964, and they were also excluded from the football, cricket and rugby World Cups.
Sporting isolation played a significant role in bringing down the apartheid regime. While it wasn't the sole factor, it was a symbolic part of the broader international pressure that helped undermine apartheid.
South African clubs now have a choice to make: chase short-term financial gain or uphold the same moral values that once won them international solidarity.
Nelson Mandela once said: 'We know too well that our freedom is incomplete without the freedom of the Palestinians.'
In another quote, that has been used countless times in today's 'stronger together' and "rainbow nation" era, the great Madiba said: 'Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does.'
Just as the world stood with South Africa during its darkest days, the time has come for South African football to return the favour. Refusing to engage with Israeli clubs would send a powerful message – that profit will not come before principle, and that the beautiful game must never be complicit in the ugliness of oppression.
IOL Sport
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