Background
Minister for Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie responded to criticism about the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture’s (DSAC) spending linked to South Africa’s involvement in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He said the total amount of about R31 million had been disclosed in a parliamentary answer and that there was “nothing to hide.”
How the Money Was Used
Official Delegation Costs
- R7.86 million covered travel, accommodation, local transport, insurance, per‑diem and other approved expenses for government officials, logistics staff, communications teams, protocol officers and South African artists.
- The delegation included 151 participants who visited Mexico and the United States (service providers not counted).
2010 Legends Programme
- R6.71 million funded an exhibition game between the 2010 Bafana Bafana squad and Mexico’s 2010 Legends team, plus related activities.
Official Venues
- R3.36 million was spent on workspaces in Atlanta and Monterrey used for meetings with government leaders, investors, sponsors, football officials and international partners.
Match Tickets
- R3.01 million paid for 294 official FIFA match tickets for the delegation and programme participants in the three host cities.
Exhibition Spaces
- The remaining R10 million built and ran South African exhibition stands in Mexico City, Atlanta and Monterrey. This covered construction, branding, technical equipment, logistics, security and cultural activities showcasing tourism, art, food and investment opportunities.
Private Sector Support
McKenzie highlighted that several private partners—Brand South Africa, Coca‑Cola, HONOR, Betway, Cell C and Old School—helped fund trips for fans, journalists, podcasters and influencers, easing the financial load on the state.
Minister’s Personal Expenses
- His own travel over a five‑week period amounted to R1,058,379.75 (flights, accommodation, insurance).
- He declined a maintenance allowance of R55,000, used shared transport where possible and confirmed that no government money paid for his family’s travel.
Accountability and Transparency
- All spending followed departmental approval processes and complied with the Public Finance Management Act, Treasury regulations and National Treasury cost‑containment rules.
- Every invoice, sponsorship contribution and payment will be reconciled in a consolidated final report once the programme ends.
- McKenzie invited anyone with evidence of improper use or personal gain to come forward, and said he remains available to answer questions from the portfolio committee.
Conclusion
The minister maintains that the R31 million allocated for World Cup‑related activities was legitimate, transparent and aligned with DSAC’s goal of promoting South Africa through sport, arts and culture. He stresses that the funds were openly reported, properly approved and subject to oversight, and that private sector contributions helped reduce the burden on taxpayers. Until any concrete proof of misconduct appears, the spending stands as a lawful effort to showcase the nation on an international stage.
