Ernst Middendorp questions integrity of NFD in open letter

The former Kaizer Chiefs and Maritzburg United head coach was at the helm when Spurs were relegated from the Betway Premiership in 2024.

He was briefly let go but reinstated ahead of the 2024/25 campaign, that saw Spurs suffer the drop once again.

They are gearing up for a season in the ABC Motsepe League, but in an open letter to the South African Football Association, Middendorp has hit out at the officiating and administration of the NFD.

He wrote: "To the leadership of the PSL, Safa, and the broader SA football community. I am writing this letter as a football professional with 31 years of experience and an advocate for fair competition, integrity, and the transformative power of soccer.

"It is with deep disappointment and concern that I must address the systemic issues that have affected the National First Division (NFD), both on and off the field.

"It is crucial to acknowledge that the integrity of any league depends on the credibility of its administration and officiating. When these foundational elements falter, the ripple effects spread across every facet of the league, tarnishing its reputation and undermining its purpose. The players, who train tirelessly to showcase their talents, find themselves demoralised by external factors that overshadow their performances.

"The NFD, meant to be a fair and merit-driven platform, is plagued by malversation (professional misconduct), manipulation, and political interference. Match officials frequently demonstrate questionable impartiality and competence, hinting at influence or even fixing," he said.

"Such issues aren't isolated but part of a larger problem. Our competition is compromised, leaving honest clubs disillusioned while irregular practices go unchecked.

"Decisions made behind closed doors, whether about licensing, eligibility, discipline, or favouritism, imply that power and influence outweigh merit and rules. This undermines trust among league members, fans, sponsors, and future generations who see football as a path forward.

"This isn't about one team, season, or incident. Without trust in our competition, progress and unity are impossible. Action is needed to save honest professionals (players, coaches, managers, officials) and preserve the game's integrity."